Sports container system

ABSTRACT

A sports container system that resembles a sports ball, or other sports related object, easily carried or comfortably attached to a user, providing convenient access to the items contained, and displaying indicia representative of advertisers, sports governing bodies, teams, players, and other entities.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to providing a system for improved apparatus and methods for providing sports representation containers. Typically, people need to carry with them smaller personal effects such as money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items. For several reasons, such a task can be difficult. Setting these items down at each destination creates the risk of forgetting about them and leaving them behind, or even having them stolen. In addition, such items may be too many or too large for placing in the pockets of one's clothing. Furthermore, keeping these items in a person's hands, at all times, obviously prevents them from having their hands free for completing tasks.

For example, a fan attending a sporting event may wish to carry and have with them, during the game, money, ID's, keys, and suntan lotion. The fan encounters the problems of not having enough pocket space, and risks having such items lost or stolen if they are placed under stadium seats.

Furthermore, most sports fans have a great interest in displaying the sports and teams of their liking. Typical sports fans tend to wear hats, t-shirts, and jerseys representative of their preferred sports and teams. For example, New York Yankees fan and Mayor of New York, Rudolph Giuliani, has been notably photographed attending New York baseball games wearing a Yankees jacket and a Yankees hat.

In the past, if sports fans have wanted to carry their items, they have had to resort to regular shaped backpacks, etc.

Further, there has not been a convenient way to allow local regional advertisers, for example within a particular city, to advertise by providing a highly desirable officially licensed (such as by an international governing sports authority) promotional product to users for free that assists fans in carrying their personal items. Typically local regional advertisers have not had the capability to procure official licensing from national and international sports organizations and governing bodies, etc.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide an improved sports representation container. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of containing a user's personal effects. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system providing sports-related item representation. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system conveniently carried. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system conveniently attachable to a user. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system providing a convenient attachment between the container and the attacher.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of being worn comfortably when attached to a user. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of adjusting such that it fits different size users. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system providing convenient access to personal items within the container. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system providing tensioned access means to personal items within the container.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that is retractable when attached to the leg of a user. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of displaying advertiser indicia. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of displaying a sport governing association's indicia. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of appearing to have the manufacturing indicia of the characterized sports-related item.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of displaying indicia on a tab attached to the access portion of the container. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system capable of displaying indicia on the attacher portions of the system. A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent with reference to the following descriptions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, adapted to containing the items; at least one access to provide access to such at least one interior portion of such at least one container; wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion; and wherein such at least one back portion comprises elements structured and arranged to provide (comfortable) wearability along the human form of the user. Moreover, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one strap, attachable to such at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. Additionally, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one attachment to attach such at least one strap to such at least one container. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one adjuster adapted to adjust the length of such at least one strap. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one connector structured and arranged to assist in securing such at least one strap to the user. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one three-dimensional representation consists essentially of about one-half of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. Further, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one strap, attachable to such at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. Even further, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one attachment to attach such at least one strap to such at least one container. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one adjuster adapted to adjust the length of such at least one strap. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one connector structured and arranged to assist in securing such at least one strap to the user. Also, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one racing wheel. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one hockey-puck. And, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one sports ball. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one football. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one basketball. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one soccer ball. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one tennis-ball. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one baseball. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one volleyball. And, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. And, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. And, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one backpack. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such container system comprises at least one leg-pack. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially at least one scaled-size of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one indicia adapted to assist user-recognizable sport representation. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises advertising indicia to assist advertising. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one indicia comprises association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one access comprises at least one closure adapted to provide closure of such at least one interior portion of such at least one container. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one closure comprises at least one zipper. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one closure comprises at least one tensioned closure structured and arranged to tensionably close such at least one interior portion. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one scaled-size is selected from the group consisting essentially of: at least one adult size; at least one child size; at least one miniature size. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially at least one scaled-size of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one scaled-size is selected from the group consisting essentially of: at least one adult size; at least one child size; at least one miniature size. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one indicia to assist user-recognizable sport representation. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia to assist advertising. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one indicia to assist user-recognizable sport representation. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one advertising indicia to assist advertising. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one zipper comprises at least one zipper tag.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, adapted to containing the items; at least one access opening to provide access to such at least one interior portion of such at least one container; wherein such at least one front portion and such at least one back consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion; wherein such at least one access opening comprises at least one tensioned opener to provide opening of such at least one interior portion of such at least one container; wherein such at least one tensioned opener comprises at least one tensioned closure structured and arranged to tensionably close such at least one access opening. And, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one strap, attachable to such at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. Further, it provides such a container system further comprising at least one attachment to attach such at least one strap to such at least one container. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one connection adapted to assist in securing such at least one strap to the user. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially about one-whole of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole racing wheel. Also, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole hockey puck. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole sports ball. And, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole of at least one football. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole basketball. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole soccer ball. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole tennis-ball. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole baseball. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole volleyball. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container is a tote-bag. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one indicia adapted to assist user-recognizable sport representation. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia adapted to assist advertising. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. Further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia adapted to assist advertising. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; access means for providing access to such at least one interior portion of such container means; wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion; and wherein such at least one back portion comprises means for (comfortable) wearability along the human form of the user. Moreover, it provides such a container system further comprising strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user. Additionally, it provides such a container system further comprising attachment means for attaching such strap means to such container means. Also, it provides such a container system wherein such strap means comprises adjuster means for adjusting the length of such strap means. In addition, it provides such a container system wherein such strap means comprises connection means for assisting in securing such strap means to the user. And, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. Further, it provides such a container system further comprising strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user. Even further, it provides such a container system further comprising attachment means for attaching such strap means to such container means. Moreover, it provides such a container system wherein such strap means comprises adjuster means for adjusting the length of such strap means. Additionally, it provides such a container system wherein such strap means comprises connection means for assisting in securing such strap means to the user.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a method of marketing a plurality of container systems for containing items of a user, each such container system comprising at least one container comprising at least one front portion and at least one back portion, access means for providing access to such at least one interior portion of such container means, wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport, wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion, and wherein such at least one back portion comprises means for assisting wearability adjacent the user's body, and strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user, comprising, in combination, the steps of: specifying at least one design for at least one container system; securing at least one order from at least one advertiser, having at least one marketing indicia, for such at least one container system; specifying at least one location, on such at least one container system, for placement of such at least one marketing indicia; providing for delivery of such at least one container system to at least one destination provided by such at least one advertiser. receiving from the at least one advertiser at least one payment for the at least one indicia displaying container system delivered to the at least one advertiser; and paying the at least one manufacturer for the shipped at least one indicia displaying container system. Also, it provides such a method further comprising the steps of: obtaining at least one license from at least one sports indicia owner in respect to at least one sports indicia related to such at least one chief item used in performing such at least one sport; and placing such at least one sports indicia on such at least one container system. In addition, it provides such a method wherein such at least one sports indicia owner comprises at least one of the group consisting essentially of: sport governing associations; advertisers; manufacturers; teams; players; racers; sport participants; and crews. And, it provides such a method wherein such placing step comprises the steps of: placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of, fanny packs; backpacks; leg packs; and tote bags. Further, it provides such a method wherein such placing step comprises the steps of: placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of, containers; straps; and zipper tags. Even further, it provides such a method wherein such placing step further comprises the steps of: placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of, fanny packs; backpacks; leg packs; and tote bags.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a method of marketing a plurality of container systems for containing items of a user, each such container system comprising at least one container comprising at least one front portion and at least one back portion, access means for providing access to such at least one interior portion of such container means, wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport, wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion, and wherein such at least one back portion comprises means for assisting wearability adjacent the user's body, and strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user, comprising, in combination, the steps of: obtaining at least one license from at least one sports indicia owner in respect to at least one sports indicia related to such at least one chief item used in performing such at least one sport; placing such at least one sports indicia on such at least one container system; and placing at least one marketing indicia of at least one advertiser on such at least one container system; the method further comprising the steps of: selling such at least one container system to such advertiser. Even further, it provides such a method further comprising the steps of: providing such at least one container system to at least one end user for free. Even further, it provides such a method wherein such sports indicia owner is an international governing organization for at least one sport. Even further, it provides such a method wherein: such at least one advertiser has a substantially local regional market. Even further, it provides such a method wherein such substantially local regional market is primarily within one state. Even further, it provides such a method wherein at least one such advertiser comprises a radio station.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a container system, for containing items of a user adjacent a leg of the user, comprising, in combination: at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; at least one access to provide access to such at least one interior portion of such at least one container; at least one leg support, attachable to such at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support adjacent the leg; at least one first attachment to attach such at least one leg strap to such at least one container; wherein such at least one leg support comprises at least one first connector structured and arranged to assisting in securing such at least one leg support to the user; wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion; wherein such at least one back portion comprises at least one wearability element to assist wearability along the human form of the user. Even further, it provides such a container system comprising: at least one waist support, attachable to such at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support adjacent the leg; at least one second attachment to attach such at least one waist support to such at least one container; wherein such at least one waist support comprises at least one second connector adapted to assist in securing such at least one waist support to the user's waist. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one waist support comprises at least one tensioner adapted to maintaining tension between such at least one waist support and such at least one container. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one leg support comprises at least one strap adapted to strap such at least one container to the leg. Even further, it provides such a container system6 wherein such at least one strap comprises at least one strap adjuster adapted to adjust the length of such at least one strap. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one strap comprises such at least one first connector. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and such at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one access comprises a zipper. Even further, it provides such a container system wherein such at least one tensioner comprises at least one retractable cord structured and arranged to maintain tension between such at least one waist support and such at least one container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of a football fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 b is a front view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 1 c is a back view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 1 d is a top view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 1 e is a side view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 2 a is a perspective view of a basketball fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 b is a front view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 c is a back view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 d is a top view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 e is a side view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 3 a is a perspective view of a soccerball fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 b is a front view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 3 c is a back view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 3 d is a top view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 3 e is a side view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a.

FIG. 4 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 b is a front view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 4 c is a back view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 4 d is a top view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 4 e is a side view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 5 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 b is a front view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a.

FIG. 5 c is a back view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a.

FIG. 5 d is a top view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a.

FIG. 5 e is a side view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a.

FIG. 6 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 b is a front view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 c is a back view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 d is a top view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 6 e is a side view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a.

FIG. 7 a is a perspective view of a baseball fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 b is a front view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a.

FIG. 7 c is a back view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a.

FIG. 7 d is a top view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a.

FIG. 7 e is a side view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a.

FIG. 8 a is a perspective view of a volleyball fanny pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 b is a front view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 c is a back view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 d is a top view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 8 e is a side view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a.

FIG. 9 a is a perspective view of a football backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 b is a front view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9 c is a back view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9 d is a top view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9 e is a side view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 10 a is a perspective view of a basketball backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 b is a front view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 10 c is a back view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 10 d is a top view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 10 e is a side view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a.

FIG. 11 a is a perspective view of a soccerball backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 b is a front view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 11 c is a back view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 11 d is a top view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 11 e is a side view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a.

FIG. 12 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 b is a front view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a.

FIG. 12 c is a back view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a.

FIG. 12 d is a top view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a.

FIG. 12 e is a side view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a.

FIG. 13 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 b is a front view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a.

FIG. 13 c is a back view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a.

FIG. 13 d is a top view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a.

FIG. 13 e is a side view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a.

FIG. 14 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 b is a front view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a.

FIG. 14 c is a back view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a.

FIG. 14 d is a top view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a.

FIG. 14 e is a side view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a.

FIG. 15 a is a perspective view of a baseball backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 b is a front view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a.

FIG. 15 c is a back view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a.

FIG. 15 d is a top view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a.

FIG. 15 e is a side view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a.

FIG. 16 a is a perspective view of a volleyball backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 b is a front view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a.

FIG. 16 c is a back view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a.

FIG. 16 d is a top view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a.

FIG. 16 e is a side view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 a is a perspective view of a football leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 b is a front view of the football leg-pack of FIG. 18 a.

FIG. 18 c is a back view of the football leg-pack of FIG. 18 a.

FIG. 18 d is a top view of the football leg-pack of FIG. 18 a.

FIG. 18 e is a side view of the football leg-pack of FIG. 18 a.

FIG. 19 a is a perspective view of a basketball leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 b is a front view of the basketball leg-pack of FIG. 19 a.

FIG. 19 c is a back view of the basketball leg-pack of FIG. 19 a.

FIG. 19 d is a top view of the basketball leg-pack of FIG. 19 a.

FIG. 19 e is a side view of the basketball leg-pack of FIG. 19 a.

FIG. 20 a is a perspective view of a soccerball leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 b is a front view of the soccerball leg-pack of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 20 c is a back view of the soccerball leg-pack of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 20 d is a top view of the soccerball leg-pack of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 20 e is a side view of the soccerball leg-pack of FIG. 20 a.

FIG. 21 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 b is a front view of the racing wheel leg-pack of FIG. 21 a.

FIG. 21 c is a back view of the racing wheel leg-pack of FIG. 21 a.

FIG. 21 d is a top view of the racing wheel leg-pack of FIG. 21 a.

FIG. 21 e is a side view of the racing wheel leg-pack of FIG. 21 a.

FIG. 22 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck leg-pack backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 b is a front view of the hockey-puck leg-pack of FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 22 c is a back view of the hockey-puck leg-pack of FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 22 d is a top view of the hockey-puck leg-pack of FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 22 e is a side view of the hockey-puck leg-pack of FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 23 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 b is a front view of the tennis ball leg-pack of FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 23 c is a back view of the tennis ball leg-pack of FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 23 d is a top view of the tennis ball leg-pack of FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 23 e is a side view of the tennis ball leg-pack of FIG. 23 a.

FIG. 24 a is a perspective view of a baseball leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 b is a front view of the baseball leg-pack of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 24 c is a back view of the baseball leg-pack of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 24 d is a top view of the baseball leg-pack of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 24 e is a side view of the baseball leg-pack of FIG. 24 a.

FIG. 25 a is a perspective view of a volleyball leg-pack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 b is a front view of the volleyball leg-pack of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 25 c is a back view of the volleyball leg-pack of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 25 d is a top view of the volleyball leg-pack of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 25 e is a side view of the volleyball leg-pack of FIG. 25 a.

FIG. 26 a is a perspective view of a football tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 b is a front view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a.

FIG. 26 c is a back view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a.

FIG. 26 d is a top view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a.

FIG. 26 e is a side view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a.

FIG. 27 a is a perspective view of a basketball tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 b is a front view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 27 a.

FIG. 27 c is a back view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 27 a.

FIG. 27 d is a top view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 27 a.

FIG. 27 e is a side view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 27 a.

FIG. 28 a is a perspective view of a soccerball tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 b is a front view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 28 a.

FIG. 28 c is a back view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 28 a.

FIG. 28 d is a top view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 28 a.

FIG. 28 e is a side view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 28 a.

FIG. 29 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 29 a.

FIG. 29 c is a back view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 29 a.

FIG. 29 d is a top view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 29 a.

FIG. 29 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 29 a.

FIG. 30 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck tote bag, having detachable handles, backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 30 a.

FIG. 30 c is a back view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 30 a.

FIG. 30 d is a top view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 30 a.

FIG. 30 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 30 a.

FIG. 31 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 31 a.

FIG. 31 c is a back view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 31 a.

FIG. 31 d is a top view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 31 a.

FIG. 31 e is a side view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 31 a.

FIG. 32 a is a perspective view of a baseball tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 32 a.

FIG. 32 c is a back view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 32 a.

FIG. 32 d is a top view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 32 a.

FIG. 32 e is a side view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 32 a.

FIG. 33 a is a perspective view of a volleyball tote bag, having detachable handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 33 a.

FIG. 33 c is a back view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 33 a.

FIG. 33 d is a top view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 33 a.

FIG. 33 e is a side view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 33 a.

FIG. 34 a is a perspective view of a football tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 34 b is a front view of the football tote bag of FIG. 34 a.

FIG. 34 c is a back view of the football tote bag of FIG. 34 a.

FIG. 34 d is a top view of the football tote bag of FIG. 34 a.

FIG. 34 e is a side view of the football tote bag of FIG. 34 a.

FIG. 35 a is a perspective view of a basketball tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 b is a front view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 35 a.

FIG. 35 c is a back view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 35 a.

FIG. 35 d is a top view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 35 a.

FIG. 35 e is a side view of the basketball tote bag of FIG. 35 a.

FIG. 36 a is a perspective view of a soccerball tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 36 b is a front view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 36 a.

FIG. 36 c is a back view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 36 a.

FIG. 36 d is a top view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 36 a.

FIG. 36 e is a side view of the soccerball tote bag of FIG. 36 a.

FIG. 37 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 37 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 37 a.

FIG. 37 c is a back view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 37 a.

FIG. 37 d is a top view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 37 a.

FIG. 37 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag of FIG. 37 a.

FIG. 38 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck tote bag, having attached handles, backpack of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 38 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 38 a.

FIG. 38 c is a back view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 38 a.

FIG. 38 d is a top view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 38 a.

FIG. 38 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag of FIG. 38 a.

FIG. 39 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 39 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 39 a.

FIG. 39 c is a back view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 39 a.

FIG. 39 d is a top view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 39 a.

FIG. 39 e is a side view of the tennis ball tote bag of FIG. 39 a.

FIG. 40 a is a perspective view of a baseball tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 40 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 40 a.

FIG. 40 c is a back view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 40 a.

FIG. 40 d is a top view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 40 a.

FIG. 40 e is a side view of the baseball tote bag of FIG. 32 a.

FIG. 41 a is a perspective view of a volleyball tote bag, having attached handles, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 41 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 41 a.

FIG. 41 c is a back view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 41 a.

FIG. 41 d is a top view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 41 a.

FIG. 41 e is a side view of the volleyball tote bag of FIG. 41 a.

FIG. 42 a is a perspective view illustrating the tote-bag closure of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 42 b is a perspective view illustrating the tote-bag closure of the sports container system according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a diagrammatic view of a system and method for selling at least one container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

Preferably, the sports container system 1000 comprises fanny pack sports containers system 100, backpack sports container system 200, leg pack sports container system 300, tote bag sports container systems 400 and 400*, and container system and method 600.

FIG. 1 a is a perspective view of a football fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, container 102 comprises a front portion 112, as shown in FIG. 1 a, and a back portion 114, as shown in FIG. 1 c, respectively. Preferably, container 102 also comprises non-visible interior portion (not shown) and exterior portion 199 (embodying herein container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; and embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion). Preferably, container 102 comprises at least one accessor 106 (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, accessor 106 comprises a zipper and zipper handle 109, as shown in FIG. 1 a. Preferably, zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 109, as shown in FIG. 1 a (zipper tag 950 may not be shown in other sports container system figures, for simplicity purposes). Preferably, zipper tag 950 is detachable, preferably a detachable keychain, as shown in FIG. 1 a. Preferably, container 102 comprises at least one strap 104, preferably two, as shown, which facilitates attaching container 102 to a user (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user).

Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a sports related item, or simulation thereof, (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and embodying herein essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, container 102 comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the portion represented, projecting away from the user, is the most detailed portion of the sports item represented. For example, a football related sports item, such as the football itself, would preferably comprise a portion of a football, with a size relative to the size of the user, shaped identical to a football, made of a material which looks like leather, brown in color, with a dimpled texture (as shown), having about eight white laces in parallel (as shown), where container 102 is horizontally and vertically symmetric to the user (as shown), with football related indicia (such as “NFL”), and a manufacturer emblem (such as Wilson™). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, a vertical representation rather than the horizontal representation shown in FIG. 1 b (capable of holding beverages), non-brown colors, non-dimpled, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about half its actual size. For example, utilizing almost the entire portion of a hockey puck, basketball hoop, or racing wheel, or some other non-half portion of the sports related item, may suffice. Furthermore, various container 102 sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, about a half portion of a football is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a football representation 191 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Football League (NFL) footballs are made, preferably leather, preferably cowhide leather. Preferably, the football representation 191 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NFL footballs (for example, brown leather and white lacing). Preferably, the football representation 191 is textured similarly to the dimpled or “pebbled” texture of an official NFL football. Preferably, the football representation 191 comprises seams 180 that appear similar to the seams of an official NFL football, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with brown threading. Preferably, the football representation 191 comprises lacing 181, preferably white lacing, and seams 180 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official NFL football, as shown. Preferably, other football marks and lines, such as lacing line 179, are painted on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, football manufacturer's preference, etc., other football representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 1 b is a front view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise football related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NFL indicia, consistent with other football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Canadian Football League (CFL), Arena Football League (AFL), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “raise the roof”, Wilson, Nike, Reebok, Coke, EA Sports, Outback Steakhouse, Tostitos, Nokia, FedEx, Marshall Faulk, Michael Vick, Eddie George, Oakland Raiders, Ohio State Buckeyes, Arizona Rattlers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, football representation 191 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching football representation 191 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of container 102, to strap 104 (embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means). Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to football representation 191 (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 1 c is a back view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 1 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that football representation 191 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that football representation 191 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that football representation 191 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material (embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion comprises means for (comfortable) wearability along the human form of the user).

Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120, as discussed below (embodying herein connection means for assisting in securing said strap means to the user; and embodying herein adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 1 d is a top view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of football representation 191, as shown, such that items stored within the interior portion of football representation 191 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, football representation 191 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, football representation 191 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside football representation 191 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within football representation 191.

FIG. 1 e is a side view of the football fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a football related item. Preferably, football representation 191 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual football (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and embodying herein essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, only a non-full (partial) portion of the football is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and still provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion football.

Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is about a half portion of a football, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 1 e. Preferably, football representation 191 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the football representation 191 user, as shown in FIG. 1 a and FIG. 1 b. Preferably, the portion of the football used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 1 a and FIG. 1 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other football representation 191 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 2 a is a perspective view of a basketball fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a half portion of a basketball is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a basketball representation 192 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Basketball Association (NBA) basketballs are made, preferably leather. Preferably, the basketball representation 192 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NBA basketballs (for example, brownish-orange leather and black seams). Preferably, the basketball representation 192 is textured similarly to the dimpled or pebbled texture of an official NBA basketball. Preferably, the basketball representation 192 comprises seams 182 that appear similar, in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official NBA basketball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with black threading and sealed with black rubber. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, basketball manufacturer's preference, etc., other basketball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 2 b is a front view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a. Preferably, basketball representation 192 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching basketball representation 192 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of basketball representation 192, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to basketball representation 192 (embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise basketball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NBA indicia, consistent with other basketball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “Phi-Slamma-Jamma”, Nike, Reebok, Converse, Sprite, Gatorade, McDonalds, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Los Angeles Lakers, Duke Blue devils, Houston Comets, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 2 c is a back view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a. Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 2 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that basketball representation 192 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that basketball representation 192 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that basketball representation 192 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

FIG. 2 d is a top view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a. Preferably, basketball representation 192 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, basketball representation 192 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside basketball representation 192 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within basketball representation 192.

Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of basketball representation 192, as shown, such that items stored within basketball representation 192 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 2 e is a side view of the basketball fanny pack of FIG. 2 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a basketball related item. Preferably, basketball representation 192 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual basketball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the basketball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion basketball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a basketball, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 2 e. Preferably, basketball representation 192 is arranged so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 2 a and FIG. 2 b. Preferably, the portion of the basketball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 2 a and FIG. 2 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other basketball representation 192 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 3 a is a perspective view of a soccerball fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a half portion of a soccerball is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a soccerball representation 193 is made of material similar to the material from which official Federal International Football (referred to as soccer in the US) Association (FIFA) soccerballs are made, preferably leather or synthetic leather. Preferably, the soccerball representation 193 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIFA soccerballs (for example, white leather optionally comprising colorful abstract or geometric shapes). Preferably, the soccerball representation 193 is textured similarly to the slick and glossy texture of an official FIFA soccerball. Preferably, the soccerball representation 193 comprises stitched seams 170 that appear similar to the seams of an official FIFA soccerball, as shown, preferably stitched with small white threading. Preferably, the soccerball representation 193 comprises stitched seams 170 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official FIFA soccerball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, soccerball manufacturer's preference, etc., other soccerball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 3 b is a front view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 (as shown in FIG. 1A) comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise soccer related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIFA indicia, consistent with other soccer and International football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Major League Soccer (MLS), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “GOOOOOOAAAAAAL . . . ”, Umbro, Adidas, Mizuno, Nike, Coke, Gatorade, IBM, Renaldo, David Beckham, Mia Hamm, Team USA Soccer, San Jose Earthquakes, North Carolina Tarheels, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, soccerball representation 193 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching soccerball representation 193 to a user (not shown). Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of soccerball representation 193, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to soccerball representation 193. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 3 c is a back view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 3 a. Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 3 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that soccerball representation 193 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that soccerball representation 193 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that soccerball representation 193 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 3 d is a top view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of soccerball representation 193, as shown, such that items stored within soccerball representation 193 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, soccerball representation 193 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, soccerball representation 193 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside soccerball representation 193 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within soccerball representation 193.

FIG. 3 e is a side view of the soccerball fanny pack of FIG. 1 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a soccerball related item. Preferably, soccer ball representation 193 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual soccer ball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the soccerball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion soccerball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a soccerball, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 3 e. Preferably, soccerball representation 193 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b. Preferably, the portion of the soccerball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other soccerball representation 193 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 4 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a greater than half portion of a racing wheel is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a racing wheel representation 194 is made of material similar to the material from which official NASCAR racing wheels are made, preferably a rubber-like material, preferably treadless. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 194 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official racing wheels (for example, black rubber, and black or chrome rims). Preferably, the racing wheel representation 194 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NASCAR racing wheel.

Preferably, the racing wheel representation 194 comprises tire body 156, preferably smooth, and tire surface 150, preferably treadless, as shown in FIG. 4 a, similar to the surface of NASCAR racing wheels. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 194 comprises rims 155 that are similar in pattern and appearance to official NASCAR racing wheels, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 4 b is a front view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a. Preferably, racing wheel representation 194 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching racing wheel representation 194 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of racing wheel representation 194, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to racing wheel representation 194. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise racing related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NASCAR indicia, consistent with other racing associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, racers, and racing crews, such as Formula One, Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA), National Hotrod Racing Association (NHRA), American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA), the phrase “rubbin's racin'”, Goodyear, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Pennzoil, Penske, Budweiser, Molson, 7-up, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 4 c is a back view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a. Preferably, strap 104 comprises seatbelt strap material 189, such as to resemble an automobile seat belt. Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 187 that fits into clasp portion 188, resembling an automobile seat belt, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, clasp portion 187 comprises a loop for providing adjustability of strap 104, as shown in FIG. 4 c and FIG. 4 d. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 4 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that racing wheel representation 194 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that racing wheel representation 194 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that racing wheel representation 194 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

FIG. 4 d is a top view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a. Preferably, racing wheel representation 194 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, racing wheel representation 194 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside racing wheel representation 194 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within racing wheel representation 194.

Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of racing wheel representation 194, as shown, such that items stored within racing wheel representation 194 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 4 e is a side view of the racing wheel fanny pack of FIG. 4 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a racing related item, preferably a racing wheel. Preferably, racing wheel representation 194 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of a racing wheel. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the racing wheel is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion racing wheel. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a racing wheel, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 4 e. Preferably, racing wheel representation 194 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b. Preferably, the portion of the racing wheel used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other racing wheel representation 194 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 5 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a greater than half portion of a hockey puck is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a hockey puck representation 195 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Hockey League (NHL) hockey pucks are made, preferably rubber, preferably hard rubber. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 195 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official hockey pucks (for example, black rubber, with multicolor indicia). Preferably, the hockey puck representation 195 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NHL hockey puck, with optional dimpling in locations where additional stick and ice gripping may be desired.

Preferably, the hockey puck representation 195 comprises a puck body 160, preferably smooth black rubber, with a circular indicia region 161, as shown in FIG. 5 a, similar to the surface of NHL hockey pucks. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 195 comprises an indicia region 161 similar in pattern and appearance to official NHL hockey pucks. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, puck manufacturer's preference, etc., other hockey puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 5 b is a front view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise hockey related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NHL indicia, consistent with other hockey associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the International Hockey League (IHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the phrase “the coolest game on earth”, the phrase “Jesus saves; Gretzky rebounds and scores”, CCM, Nike, Budweiser, Pizza Hut, Mario Lemieux, Dominik Hasek, Detroit Redwings, Michigan Wolverines, Spokane Chief, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hockey puck representation 195 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching hockey puck representation 195 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of hockey puck representation 195, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to hockey puck representation 195. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 5 c is a back view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a. Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 5 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that hockey puck representation 195 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that hockey puck representation 195 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that hockey puck representation 195 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 5 d is a top view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a. Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of hockey puck representation 195, as shown, such that items stored within hockey puck representation 195 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hockey puck representation 195 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, hockey puck representation 195 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside hockey puck representation 195 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within hockey puck representation 195.

FIG. 5 e is a side view of the hockey-puck fanny pack of FIG. 5 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a hockey related item. Preferably, hockey representation 195 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual hockey puck. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the hockey puck is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion hockey puck. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a hockey puck, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 5 e. Preferably, hockey puck representation 195 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 5 a and FIG. 5 b. Preferably, the portion of the hockey puck used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 5 a and FIG. 5 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other hockey puck representation 195 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 6 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a half portion of a tennis ball is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a tennis ball representation 196 is made of material similar to the material from which official United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis balls are made, preferably felt. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 196 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official USTA tennis balls (for example, yellow felt). Preferably, the tennis ball representation 196 is textured similarly to furry felt texture of an official USTA tennis ball. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 196 comprises seams 162 and tennis ball surface 163, preferably yellow felt, appearing similar in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official USTA tennis ball, as shown, preferably a white rubber seal. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, tennis ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other tennis ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 6 b is a front view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a. Preferably, tennis ball representation 196 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching tennis ball representation 196 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of tennis ball representation 196, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to tennis ball representation 196. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise tennis related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-USTA indicia, consistent with other tennis ball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, and players, such as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), Canadian tennis Association (CTA), Nike, Reebok, Wilson, Prince, Gatorade, Dunlop, Slazenger, Andre Agassi, Anna Kournikova, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 6 c is a back view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a. Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 6 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that tennis ball representation 196 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that tennis ball representation 196 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that tennis ball representation 196 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

FIG. 6 d is a top view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a. Preferably, tennis ball representation 196 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tennis ball representation 196 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside tennis ball representation 196 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within tennis ball representation 196.

Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of tennis ball representation 196, as shown, such that items stored within tennis ball representation 196 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 6 e is a side view of the tennis ball fanny pack of FIG. 6 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a tennis related item. Preferably, tennis ball representation 196 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual tennis ball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the tennis ball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion tennis ball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a tennis ball, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 6 e. Preferably, tennis ball representation 196 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 6 a and FIG. 6 b. Preferably, the portion of the tennis ball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 6 a and FIG. 6 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tennis ball representation 196 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 7 a is a perspective view of a baseball fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Such perspective view in FIG. 7 a is also representative of a preferred embodiment of a softball fanny pack, but will be discussed, for simplicity, in the context of a baseball fanny pack, as softballs generally appear to be larger scale versions of baseballs. Preferably, about a half portion of a baseball is the sports item represented by container 102.

Preferably, as shown, a baseball representation 197 is made of material similar to the material from which official Major League Baseball (MLB) baseballs are made, preferably leather, preferably rawhide leather. Preferably, the baseball representation 197 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official MLB baseballs (for example, white leather and red stitching). Preferably, the baseball representation 197 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official MLB baseball. Preferably, the baseball representation 197 comprises stitches 166, preferably red thread, and baseball surface 165, preferably white leather, that appears similar to an official MLB baseball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, baseball manufacturer's preference, etc., other baseball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 7 b is a front view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise baseball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-MLB indicia, consistent with other baseball and softball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), International Baseball Association (IBA), National Softball Association (NSA), Little League Baseball, the phrase “Holy Cow”, Mizuno, Nike, Reebok, Rawlings, Randy Johnson, Barry Bonds, Lisa Fernandez, New York Yankees, Rice Owls, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, baseball representation 197 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching baseball representation 197 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of baseball representation 197, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to baseball representation 197. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 7 c is a back view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a. Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 7 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that baseball representation 197 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that baseball representation 197 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that baseball representation 197 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 7 d is a top view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a. Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of baseball representation 197, as shown, such that items stored within baseball representation 197 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, baseball representation 197 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, baseball representation 197 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside baseball representation 197 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within baseball representation 197.

FIG. 7 e is a side view of the baseball fanny pack of FIG. 7 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a baseball related item. Preferably, baseball representation 197 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual baseball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the baseball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion baseball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a baseball, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 7 e. Preferably, baseball representation 197 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 7 a and FIG. 7 b. Preferably, the portion of the baseball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 7 a and FIG. 7 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other baseball representation 197 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 8 a is a perspective view of a volleyball fanny pack of the sports container system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a half portion of a volleyball is the sports item represented by container 102. Preferably, as shown, a volleyball representation 198 is made of material similar to the material from which official Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) volleyballs are made, preferably leather, preferably white leather. Preferably, the volleyball representation 198 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIVB volleyballs (for example, white leather and black seams). Preferably, the volleyball representation 198 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official FIVB volleyball. Preferably, the volleyball representation 198 comprises seams 168 and volleyball surface 167, preferably white leather, which appears similar to an official FIVB volleyball, as shown in FIG. 8 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, volleyball manufacturer's preference, etc., other volleyball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 8 b is a front view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a. Preferably, volleyball representation 198 comprises at least one strap 104, as shown, which facilitates attaching volleyball representation 198 to a user. Preferably, strap 104 comprises attacher 105, which provides for attachment of volleyball representation 198, to strap 104. Preferably, attacher 105 is a stitching arrangement, such that strap 104 is stitched to volleyball representation 198. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 112 comprises container indicia 108. Preferably, strap 104 comprises strap indicia 110. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 108 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise volleyball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIVB indicia, consistent with other volleyball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), USA Volleyball, Pro Beach Volleyball, Tachikara, Baden, Molten, Mazda, Southwest Airlines, Karch Kiraly, Misty May, UCLA Bruins, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 8 c is a back view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a. Preferably, strap 104 comprises a connector 107. Preferably, connector 107 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 104 comprises clasp portion 116 which fits into clasp portion 118, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 116 comprises a loop for assisting adjuster 120 (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 104 comprises adjuster 120, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 104. Preferably, adjuster 120 is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 104, pulling strap 104 along itself using connector 107 as a wrap around. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, back portion 114 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 8 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the belly of the user, if the pack is attached such that volleyball representation 198 is in front. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the lower back of the user, if the pack is attached such that volleyball representation 198 is in back. A substantially flat back portion 114 provides contour and comfort against the side of the user, if the pack is attached such that volleyball representation 198 is off to one side of the user. Preferably, back portion 114 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

FIG. 8 d is a top view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a. Preferably, volleyball representation 198 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, volleyball representation 198 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside volleyball representation 198 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within volleyball representation 198.

Preferably, accessor 106 is located at the top of volleyball representation 198, as shown, such that items stored within volleyball representation 198 do not fall out when accessor 106 is opened. Preferably, accessor 106 is located between the front portion 112 and the back portion 114, as shown. Preferably, accessor 106 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 109, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 106, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 8 e is a side view of the volleyball fanny pack of FIG. 8 a. Preferably, front portion 112 comprises a representation of a volleyball related item. Preferably, volleyball representation 198 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual volleyball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the volleyball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 114, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion volleyball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a volleyball, projecting away from the plane of straps 104, as shown in FIG. 8 e. Preferably, volleyball representation 198 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 100 user (not shown), as shown in FIG. 8 a and FIG. 8 b. Preferably, the portion of the volleyball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 8 a and FIG. 8 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other volleyball representation 198 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 9 a is a perspective view of a football backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, container 202 comprises a front portion 212, as shown in FIG. 9 a, a back portion 214, as shown in FIG. 9 c, and a back portion seam 215, as shown in FIG. 9 c, respectively. Preferably, container 202 also comprises non-visible interior portion (not shown) and exterior portion (embodying herein container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; and embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion). Preferably, container 202 comprises at least one accessor 206, as shown in FIG. 9 a (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, accessor 206 comprises a zipper and zipper handle 209, as shown in FIG. 9 a. Preferably, zipper handle 209 comprises zipper tag 950 (not shown, see FIG. 1A). Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952. Preferably, container 202 comprises at least one strap 204, which facilitates attaching container 202 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 are symmetrically attached to the top and bottom of container 202, as best shown in FIG. 9 a and FIG. 9 c. Preferably, container 202 comprises small strap 211, attached at the very top of container 202, as shown in FIG. 9 a, for purposes of hanging or holding without using straps 204. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205 (discussed below and shown in FIG. 9 c) (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user; and embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means).

Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a sports related item (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, container 202 comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the portion represented, projecting away from the user, is the most detailed portion of the sports item represented. For example, a football related sports item, such as the football itself, would preferably comprise a portion of a football, with a size relative to the size of the user, shaped identical to a football (as shown), made of a material which looks like leather, brown in color, with a dimpled texture (as shown), having about eight white laces in parallel (as shown), where container 202 is horizontally and vertically symmetric to the user (as shown), with football related indicia (such as “NFL”), and a manufacturer emblem (such as Wilson™). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, a vertical representation rather than the horizontal representation shown in FIG. 9 b (capable of holding beverages), non-brown colors, non-dimpled, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about half its actual size. For example, utilizing almost the entire portion of a hockey puck, basketball hoop, or racing wheel, or some other non-half portion of the sports related item, may suffice. Furthermore, various container 202 sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, about a three quarters portion of a football is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a football representation 291 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Football League (NFL) footballs are made, preferably leather, preferably cowhide leather. Preferably, the football representation 291 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NFL footballs (for example, brown leather and white lacing). Preferably, the football representation 291 is textured similarly to the dimpled or “pebbled” texture of an official NFL football. Preferably, the football representation 291 comprises seams 280 that appear similar to the seams of an official NFL football, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with brown threading. Preferably, the football representation 291 comprises lacing 281 and seams 280 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official NFL football, as shown. Preferably, other football marks and lines, such as lacing line 279, are painted on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, football manufacturer's preference, etc., other football representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 9 b is a front view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, straps 204 comprise strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise football related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NFL indicia, consistent with other football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Canadian Football League (CFL), Arena Football League (AFL), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “raise the roof”, Wilson, Nike, Reebok, Coke, EA Sports, Outback Steakhouse, Tostitos, Nokia, FedEx, Marshall Faulk, Michael Vick, Eddie George, Oakland Raiders, Ohio State Buckeyes, Arizona Rattlers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, football representation 291 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching football representation 291 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of football representation 291, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 9 c and FIG. 9 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to football representation 291 (embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 9 c is a back view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 9 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that football representation 291 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises back portion seam 215 (embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion comprises means for (comfortable) wearability along the human form of the user).

Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204 (embodying herein adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means). Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 9 d is a top view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of football representation 291, as shown, such that items stored within the interior of football representation 291 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, football representation 291 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, football representation 291 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within football representation 291.

FIG. 9 e is a side view of the football backpack of FIG. 9 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a football related item. Preferably, football representation 291 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual football (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, only a non-full portion of the football is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion football. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a football, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 9 e. Preferably, football representation 291 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 9 a and FIG. 9 b. Preferably, the portion of the football used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 9 a and FIG. 9 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other football representation 291 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 10 a is a perspective view of a basketball backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a three-quarters portion of a basketball is the sports item represented by container 202, as shown. Preferably, as shown, a basketball representation 292 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Basketball Association (NBA) basketballs are made, preferably leather. Preferably, the basketball representation 292 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NBA basketballs (for example, brownish-orange leather and black seams). Preferably, the basketball representation 292 is textured similarly to the dimpled or pebbled texture of an official NBA basketball. Preferably, the basketball representation 292 comprises seams 282 that appear similar, in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official NBA basketball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with black threading and sealed with black rubber. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, basketball manufacturer's preference, etc., other basketball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 10 b is a front view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a. Preferably, basketball representation 292 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching basketball representation 292 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of basketball representation 292, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 10 c and FIG. 10 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to basketball representation 292. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise basketball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NBA indicia, consistent with other basketball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “Phi-Slamma-Jamma”, Nike, Reebok, Converse, Sprite, Gatorade, McDonalds, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Los Angeles Lakers, Duke Blue devils, Houston Comets, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 10 c is a back view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 10 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that basketball representation 292 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material.

Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 10 d is a top view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of basketball representation 292, as shown, such that items stored within basketball representation 292 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, basketball representation 292 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, basketball representation 292 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within basketball representation 292.

FIG. 10 e is a side view of the basketball backpack of FIG. 10 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a basketball related item. Preferably, basketball representation 292 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual basketball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the basketball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion basketball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a basketball, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 10 e. Preferably, basketball representation 292 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 9 a and FIG. 9 b. Preferably, the portion of the basketball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 10 a and FIG. 10 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other basketball representation 292 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 11 a is a perspective view of a soccerball backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a three-quarters portion of a soccerball is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a soccerball representation 293 is made of material similar to the material from which official Federal International Football (referred to as soccer in the US) Association (FIFA) soccerballs are made, preferably leather or synthetic leather. Preferably, the soccerball representation 293 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIFA soccerballs (for example, white leather optionally comprising colorful abstract or geometric shapes). Preferably, the soccerball representation 293 is textured similarly to the slick and glossy texture of an official FIFA soccerball. Preferably, the soccerball representation 293 comprises laced seams 270 that appear similar to the seams of an official FIFA soccerball, as shown, preferably stitched with small white threading. Preferably, the soccerball representation 293 comprises laced seams 270 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official FIFA soccerball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, soccerball manufacturer's preference, etc., other soccerball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 11 b is a front view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise soccer related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIFA indicia, consistent with other soccer and International football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Major League Soccer (MLS), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), the phrase “GOOOOOOAAAAAAL . . . ”, Umbro, Adidas, Mizuno, Nike, Coke, Gatorade, IBM, Renaldo, David Beckham, Mia Hamm, Team USA Soccer, San Jose Earthquakes, North Carolina Tarheels, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, soccer ball representation 293 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching soccer ball representation 293 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of soccer ball representation 293, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 11 c and FIG. 11 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to soccer ball representation 293. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 11 c is a back view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 11 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that soccer ball representation 293 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 11 d is a top view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of soccer ball representation 293, as shown, such that items stored within soccer ball representation 293 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, soccer ball representation 293 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, soccer ball representation 293 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within soccer ball representation 293.

FIG. 11 e is a side view of the soccerball backpack of FIG. 11 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a soccer related item. Preferably, soccer representation 293 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual soccer ball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the soccer ball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion soccer ball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a soccer ball, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 11 e. Preferably, soccer ball representation 293 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 11 a and FIG. 11 b. Preferably, the portion of the soccer ball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 11 a and FIG. 11 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other soccer ball representation 293 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 12 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a greater than half portion of a racing wheel is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a racing wheel representation 294 is made of material similar to the material from which official NASCAR racing wheels are made, preferably a rubber-like material, preferably treadless. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 294 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official racing wheels (for example, black rubber, and black or chrome rims). Preferably, the racing wheel representation 294 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NASCAR racing wheel. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 294 comprises tire body 256, preferably smooth, and tire surface 250, preferably treadless, as shown in FIG. 4 a, similar to the surface of NASCAR racing wheels. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 294 comprises rims 255 that are similar in pattern and appearance to official NASCAR racing wheels, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 12 b is a front view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a. Preferably, racing wheel representation 294 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching racing wheel representation 294 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of racing wheel representation 294, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 12 c and FIG. 12 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to racing wheel representation 294. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise racing related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NASCAR indicia, consistent with other racing associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, racers, and racing crews, such as Formula One, Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA), National Hotrod Racing Association (NHRA), American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA), the phrase “rubbin's racin'”, Goodyear, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Pennzoil, Penske, Budweiser, Molson, 7-up, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 12 c is a back view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 12 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that racing wheel representation 294 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, strap 204 comprises seatbelt strap material 289, such as to resemble an automobile seat belt. Preferably, strap 204 comprises a connector 207. Preferably, connector 207 comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 204 comprises clasp portion 287 that fits into clasp portion 288, resembling an automobile seat belt, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 12 d is a top view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of racing wheel representation 294, as shown, such that items stored within racing wheel representation 294 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, racing wheel representation 294 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, racing wheel representation 294 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within racing wheel representation 294.

FIG. 12 e is a side view of the racing wheel backpack of FIG. 12 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a racing related item. Preferably, racing representation 294 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual racing wheel. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the racing wheel is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion racing wheel. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a racing wheel, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 12 e. Preferably, racing wheel representation 294 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 12 a and FIG. 12 b. Preferably, the portion of the racing wheel used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 12 a and FIG. 12 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other racing wheel representation 294 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 13 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a greater than half portion of a hockey puck is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a hockey puck representation 295 is made of material similar to the material from which official National Hockey League (NHL) hockey pucks are made, preferably rubber, preferably hard rubber. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 295 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official hockey pucks (for example, black rubber, with multicolor indicia). Preferably, the hockey puck representation 295 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NHL hockey puck, with optional dimpling in locations where additional stick and ice gripping may be desired. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 295 comprises a puck body 260, preferably smooth black rubber, with a circular indicia region 261, as shown in FIG. 13 a, similar to the surface of NHL hockey pucks. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 295 comprises an indicia region 261 similar in pattern and appearance to official NHL hockey pucks. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, puck manufacturer's preference, etc., other hockey puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 13 b is a front view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise hockey related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NHL indicia, consistent with other hockey associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the International Hockey League (IHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the phrase “the coolest game on earth”, the phrase “Jesus saves; Gretzky rebounds and scores”, CCM, Nike, Budweiser, Pizza Hut, Mario Lemieux, Dominik Hasek, Detroit Redwings, Michigan Wolverines, Spokane Chief, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hockey puck representation 295 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching hockey puck representation 295 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of hockey puck representation 295, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 13 c and FIG. 13 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to hockey puck representation 295. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 13 c is a back view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 13 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that hockey puck representation 295 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 13 d is a top view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of hockey puck representation 295, as shown, such that items stored within hockey puck representation 295 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, hockey puck representation 295 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, hockey puck representation 295 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within hockey puck representation 295.

FIG. 13 e is a side view of the hockey-puck backpack of FIG. 13 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a hockey related item. Preferably, hockey representation 295 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual hockey puck. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the hockey puck is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion hockey puck. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about half portion of a hockey puck, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 13 e. Preferably, hockey puck representation 295 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 13 a and FIG. 13 b. Preferably, the portion of the hockey puck used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 13 a and FIG. 13 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other hockey puck representation 295 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 14 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a three-quarters portion of a tennis ball is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a tennis ball representation 296 is made of material similar to the material from which official United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis balls are made, preferably felt. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 296 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official USTA tennis balls (for example, yellow felt). Preferably, the tennis ball representation 296 is textured similarly to furry felt texture of an official USTA tennis ball. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 296 comprises seams 262 and tennis ball surface 263, preferably yellow felt, appearing similar in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official USTA tennis ball, as shown, preferably a white rubber seal. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, tennis ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other tennis ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 14 b is a front view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a. Preferably, tennis ball representation 296 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching tennis ball representation 296 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of tennis ball representation 296, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 14 c and FIG. 14 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to tennis ball representation 296. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise tennis related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-USTA indicia, consistent with other tennis ball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, and players, such as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), Canadian tennis Association (CTA), Nike, Reebok, Wilson, Prince, Gatorade, Dunlop, Slazenger, Andre Agassi, Anna Kournikova, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 14 c is a back view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 14 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that tennis ball representation 296 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 14 d is a top view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of tennis ball representation 296, as shown, such that items stored within tennis ball representation 296 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, tennis ball representation 296 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tennis ball representation 296 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within tennis ball representation 291.

FIG. 14 e is a side view of the tennis ball backpack of FIG. 14 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a tennis related item. Preferably, tennis representation 296 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual tennis ball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the tennis ball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion tennis ball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a tennis ball, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 14 e. Preferably, tennis ball representation 296 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 14 a and FIG. 14 b. Preferably, the portion of the tennis ball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 14 a and FIG. 14 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tennis ball representation 296 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 15 a is a perspective view of a baseball backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Such perspective view in FIG. 15 a is also representative of a preferred embodiment of a softball fanny pack, but will be discussed, for simplicity, in the context of a baseball fanny pack, as softballs generally appear to be larger scale versions of baseballs. Preferably, about a three-quarters portion of a baseball is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a baseball representation 297 is made of material similar to the material from which official Major League Baseball (MLB) baseballs are made, preferably leather, preferably rawhide leather. Preferably, the baseball representation 297 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official MLB baseballs (for example, white leather and red stitching). Preferably, the baseball representation 297 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official MLB baseball. Preferably, the baseball representation 297 comprises stitches 266, preferably red thread, and baseball surface 265, preferably white leather, that appears similar to an official MLB baseball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, baseball manufacturer's preference, etc., other baseball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 15 b is a front view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise baseball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-MLB indicia, consistent with other baseball and softball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), International Baseball Association (IBA), National Softball Association (NSA), Little League Baseball, the phrase “Holy Cow”, Mizuno, Nike, Reebok, Rawlings, Randy Johnson, Barry Bonds, Lisa Fernandez, New York Yankees, Rice Owls, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, baseball representation 297 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching baseball representation 297 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of baseball representation 297, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 15 c and FIG. 15 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to baseball representation 297. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 15 c is a back view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 15 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that baseball representation 297 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 15 d is a top view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of baseball representation 297, as shown, such that items stored within baseball representation 297 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, baseball representation 297 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, baseball representation 297 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within baseball representation 297.

FIG. 15 e is a side view of the baseball backpack of FIG. 15 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a baseball related item. Preferably, baseball representation 297 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual baseball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the baseball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion baseball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a baseball, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 15 e. Preferably, baseball representation 297 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 15 a and FIG. 15 b. Preferably, the portion of the baseball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 15 a and FIG. 15 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other baseball representation 297 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 16 a is a perspective view of a volleyball backpack of the sports container system 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, about a three-quarters portion of a volleyball is the sports item represented by container 202. Preferably, as shown, a volleyball representation 298 is made of material similar to the material from which official Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) volleyballs are made, preferably leather, preferably white leather. Preferably, the volleyball representation 298 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIVB volleyballs (for example, white leather and black seams). Preferably, the volleyball representation 298 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official FIVB volleyball. Preferably, the volleyball representation 298 comprises seams 268 and volleyball surface 267, preferably white leather, which appears similar to an official FIVB volleyball, as shown in FIG. 16 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, volleyball manufacturer's preference, etc., other volleyball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 16 b is a front view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a. Preferably, volleyball representation 298 comprises straps 204, as shown, which facilitates attaching volleyball representation 298 to a user. Preferably, straps 204 and small strap 211 comprise attachers 205, which provides for attachment of volleyball representation 298, to straps 204 and small strap 211, as best shown in FIG. 16 c and FIG. 16 d. Preferably, attachers 205 comprise a stitching configuration, such that straps 204 and small strap 211 are stitched to volleyball representation 298. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 212 comprises container indicia 208. Preferably, strap 204 comprises strap indicia 210. Preferably, zipper tag 950 comprises zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise advertising indicia for an advertiser. Preferably, container indicia 208 and/or strap indicia 210 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise volleyball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIVB indicia, consistent with other volleyball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), USA Volleyball, Pro Beach Volleyball, Tachikara, Baden, Molten, Mazda, Southwest Airlines, Karch Kiraly, Misty May, UCLA Bruins, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 16 c is a back view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a. Preferably, back portion 214 is substantially flat, as shown in FIG. 16 c, contoured to provide comfort and ease of use. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the back of the user, if the pack is attached such that container 202 is on the backside of the user. A substantially flat back portion 214 provides contour and comfort against the chest of the user, if the pack is attached such that volleyball representation 298 is in front of the user. Preferably, back portion 214 comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, straps 204 comprise adjusters 220 and loops 213, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of straps 204. Preferably, adjusters 220 are traditional adjusters, comprising a bracket which slides along strap 204, where straps 204 loop through loops 213, as best shown in FIG. 9 b, FIG. 9 c, and FIG. 9 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 16 d is a top view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a. Preferably, accessor 206 is located at the top of volleyball representation 298, as shown, such that items stored within volleyball representation 298 do not fall out when accessor 206 is opened. Preferably, accessor 206 is located between the front portion 212 and the back portion 214, as shown. Preferably, accessor 206 is a zipper comprising zipper handle 209, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other accessor arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, other locations for accessor 206, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, volleyball representation 298 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, volleyball representation 298 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within volleyball representation 298.

FIG. 16 e is a side view of the volleyball backpack of FIG. 16 a. Preferably, front portion 212 comprises a representation of a volleyball related item. Preferably, volleyball representation 298 comprises a 3-dimensional portion of an actual volleyball. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the volleyball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 214, which contours to the user's body better than a full portion volleyball. Preferably, the 3-dimensional portion is an about three-quarters portion of a volleyball, projecting away from the plane of straps 204, as shown in FIG. 16 e. Preferably, volleyball representation 298 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric to a person facing the system 200 user, as shown in FIG. 16 a and FIG. 16 b. Preferably, the portion of the volleyball used appears symmetric, as shown in FIG. 16 a and FIG. 16 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other volleyball representation 298 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a leg-pack 302 of the leg-pack sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the leg-pack 302 comprises a convenient container for storing items, much like the fanny-pack sports container system 100 described above, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, the leg-pack 302 is situate conveniently adjacent the body of a user 303, as shown. Preferably, the leg-pack 302 is connected to a belt 304 or along a waist portion 305 of the user 303, as shown. Preferably, the leg-pack 302 is also secured along the leg 306 of the user 303, as shown. Most preferably, the leg-pack 302 comprises a leg strap 308 that fits over the pants 307 or the leg 306 of the user 303, as shown (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user).

Preferably, the leg-pack also comprises a length adjuster, preferably a retractable extender 310 for providing automatic adjustment for various-sized users between the waist 305 and the leg strap 308, as shown (embodying herein wherein said at least one waist support comprises at least one length adjuster to adjust length of support between said at least one waist support and said at least one container; and embodying herein wherein said at least one waist support comprises at least one tensioner adapted to maintaining tension between said at least one waist support and said at least one container; and embodying herein wherein said at least one tensioner comprises at least one retractable cord structured and arranged to maintain tension between said at least one waist support and said at least one container). In addition, the retractable extender 310 provides additional security against theft of the leg-pack 302

The following descriptions of the leg-pack 302 (herein referred to as leg-packs 302 a through 302 h) will provide additional detail for the system 300 and individual embodiments, as shown.

FIG. 18 a is a perspective view of a football leg-pack 302 a of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 b is a front view of the football leg-pack 302 a of FIG. 18 a. FIG. 18 c is a back view of the football leg-pack 302 a of FIG. 18 a. FIG. 18 d is a top view of the football leg-pack 302 a of FIG. 18 a. FIG. 18 e is a side view of the football leg-pack 302 a of FIG. 18 a. Preferably, the football leg-pack 302 a comprises a front portion 312 a, a back portion 314 a, an access assembly 316 a, a waist attacher 320 a (embodying herein at least one waist support, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support adjacent the leg), a leg attacher 322 a and a retractable length adjuster 324 a, as shown (embodying herein container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion; embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means; and embodying herein adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means).

Preferably, front portion 312 a comprises a container 307 a resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional football representation 315 a (or simulation thereof) of an actual football (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and embodying herein essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, football representation 315 a comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 a projects away from the body user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the football is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat 314 a, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion football. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 a provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 a comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material (embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion comprises means for (comfortable) wearability along the human form of the user).

Preferably, the front portion 312 a is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, a football related sports item, such as the illustrated embodiment, preferably comprises a half-portion of a football, with a size relative to the size of the user, shaped identical to a typical football, made of a material which looks like leather, brown in color, with a dimpled texture, having about eight white laces in parallel. Most preferably, the front portion 312 a of the football-representation 315 a is made of material similar to the material from which official National Football League (NFL) footballs are made, preferably leather, preferably cowhide leather. Preferably, the football representation 315 a comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NFL footballs (for example, brown leather and white lacing). Preferably, the football representation 315 a is textured similarly to the dimpled or “pebbled” texture of an official NFL football. Preferably, the football representation 315 a comprises lacing 326 a and seams 325 a that appear similar to the seams of an official NFL football, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with brown threading, as shown. Preferably, other football marks and lines, such as lacing line 327 a, are painted on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, football manufacturer's preference, etc., other football representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 a of the football representation 315 a further comprises football related indicia (such as “NFL”), and a manufacturer emblem (such as Wilson™).

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, non-brown colors, non-dimpled, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various football leg-pack 302 a sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra-large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the football representation 315 a is oriented longitudinally along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 a comprises an access assembly 316 a (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, access assembly 316 a comprises a zipper 328 a and zipper handle 329 a, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 a (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 a opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 a, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 a is located at the portion of the container 307 a nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 a do not fall out when access assembly 316 a is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 a is located equidistant between the front portion 312 a and the back portion 314 a, as shown.

FIG. 18 b is a front view of the football leg-pack 302 a of FIG. 18 a. Preferably, front portion 312 a comprises container indicia 331 a. Preferably, leg attacher 322 a and retractable length adjuster 324 also comprises indicia 332 a. Preferably, container indicia 331 a and/or indicia 332 a (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise football related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NFL indicia, consistent with other football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Canadian Football League (CFL), Arena Football League (AFL), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 a is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 18 c, 18 d, and 18 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 a adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 a comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 a. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 a at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 a at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 a, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 a, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the football leg-pack 302 a onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17) (embodying herein adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the football leg-pack 302 a, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 a is attached to the container 307 a, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 a, as shown. Preferably, the cable 342 a extends through the exterior portion 344 a of the container 307 a, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 a is attached to the cable 342 a from the interior portion of the container 307 a such that the cable 342 a is coupled to the container 307 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 a comprises a strap 330 a, as shown, which facilitates attaching the football leg-pack 302 a to the leg of a user. Preferably, leg attacher 322 a comprises attachment 333 a, which provides for attachment of the container 307 a, to strap 330 a, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 a is sewn to both the strap 330 a and the container 307 a, as shown (embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 a comprises a connector 334 a. Preferably, connector 334 a comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, strap 330 a comprises clasp portion 336 a that fits into clasp portion 338 a, as shown (Preferably, strap 204 comprises seatbelt strap material 289, such as to resemble an automobile seat belt.). Preferably, clasp portion 336 a comprises a loop 337 a for assisting adjuster 340 a (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 a comprises adjuster 340 a, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 a. Preferably, adjuster 340 a is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 a that slides along strap 330 a, pulling strap 330 a tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 19 a is a perspective view of a basketball leg-pack 302 b of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 b is a front view of the basketball leg-pack 302 b of FIG. 19 a. FIG. 19 c is a back view of the basketball leg-pack 302 b of FIG. 19 a. FIG. 19 d is a top view of the basketball leg-pack 302 b of FIG. 19 a. FIG. 19 e is a side view of the basketball leg-pack 302 b of FIG. 19 a. Preferably, the basketball leg-pack 302 b comprises a front portion 312 b, a back portion 314 b, an access assembly 316 b, a waist attacher 320 b, a leg attacher 322 b and a retractable length adjuster 324 b, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 b comprises a container 307 b resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional basketball representation 315 b (or simulation thereof) of an actual basketball. Preferably, basketball leg-pack 302 b comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 b projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the basketball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 b, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion basketball. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 b provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 b comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 b is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, a basketball related sports item, such as the illustrated embodiment, preferably comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NBA basketballs (for example, brownish-orange leather and black seams). Preferably, the basketball representation 315 b is textured similarly to the dimpled or pebbled texture of an official NBA basketball. Preferably, the basketball representation 315 b comprises seams 325 b that appear similar, in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official NBA basketball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with black threading and sealed with black rubber. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, basketball manufacturer's preference, etc., other basketball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 b of the basketball representation 315 b further comprises basketball related indicia (such as “NBA”), and a manufacturer emblem (such as Wilson™).

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, non-brown colors, non-dimpled, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various basketball leg-pack 302 b sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the basketball representation 315 b is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 b comprises an access assembly 316 b (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means). Preferably, access assembly 316 b comprises a zipper 328 b and zipper handle 329 b, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 b (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 b opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 b, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 b is located at the portion of the container 307 b nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 b do not fall out when access assembly 316 b is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 b is located equidistant between the front portion 312 b and the back portion 314 b, as shown.

FIG. 19 b is a front view of the basketball leg-pack 302 b of FIG. 19 a. Preferably, front portion 312 b comprises container indicia 331 b. Preferably, leg attacher 322 b and retractable length adjuster 324 b also comprises indicia 332 b. Preferably, container indicia 331 b and/or indicia 332 b (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise basketball related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NBA indicia, consistent with other basketball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Nike™, Reebok™, Converse™, Sprite™, Gatorade™, McDonalds™, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Los Angeles Lakers, Duke Blue devils, Houston Comets, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 b is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 19 c, 19 d, and 19 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 b adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 b comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 b. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 b is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 KEY-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 b at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 b at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 b, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 b, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the basketball leg-pack 302 b onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the basketball leg-pack 302 b, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 b is attached to the container 307 b, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 b, as shown. Preferably, the light cable 342 b extends through the exterior portion 344 b of the container 307 b, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 b is attached to the cable 342 b from the interior portion of the container 307 b such that the cable 342 b is coupled to the container 307 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 b comprises a strap 330 b, as shown, which facilitates attaching the basketball leg-pack 302 b to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 b comprises attachment 333 b, which provides for attachment of the container 307 b, to strap 330 b, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 b is sewn to both the strap 330 b and the container 307 b, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 b comprises a connector 334 b. Preferably, connector 334 b comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 b comprises clasp portion 336 b that fits into clasp portion 338 b, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 b comprises a loop 337 b for assisting adjuster 340 b (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 b comprises adjuster 340 b, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 b. Preferably, adjuster 340 b is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 b that slides along strap 330 b, pulling strap 330 b tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 20 a is a perspective view of a soccer ball leg-pack 302 c of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 b is a front view of the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c of FIG. 20 a. FIG. 20 c is a back view of the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c of FIG. 20 a. FIG. 20 d is a top view of the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c of FIG. 20 a. FIG. 20 e is a side view of the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c of FIG. 20 a.

Preferably, the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c comprises a front portion 312 c, a back portion 314 c, an access assembly 316 c, a waist attacher 320 c, a leg attacher 322 c and a retractable length adjuster 324 c, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 c comprises a container 307 c resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional soccer ball representation 315 c (or simulation thereof) of an actual soccer ball. Preferably, soccer ball leg-pack 302 c comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 c projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the soccer ball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 c, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion soccer ball. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 c provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 c comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 c is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, soccer ball representation 315 c is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official Federal International Football (referred to as soccer in the US) Association (FIFA) soccer balls are made, preferably leather or synthetic leather. Preferably, soccer ball representation 315 c comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIFA soccer balls (for example, white leather optionally comprising colorful abstract or geometric shapes). Preferably, the soccer ball representation 315 c is textured similarly to the slick and glossy texture of an official FIFA soccer ball. Preferably, the soccer ball representation 315 c comprises stitched seams 325 c that appear similar to the seams of an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown, preferably stitched with small white threading. Preferably, the soccer ball representation 315 c comprises laced seams 325 c that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, soccer ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other soccer ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 c of the soccer ball representation 315 c further comprises soccer ball related indicia (such as “FIFA”) etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, non-white colors, different patters, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various soccer ball representation 315 c sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the soccer ball representation 315 c is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 c comprises an access assembly 316 c. Preferably, access assembly 316 c comprises a zipper 328 c and zipper handle 329 c, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 c (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 c opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 c. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 c, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 is located at the portion of the container 307 c nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 c do not fall out when access assembly 316 c is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 c is located equidistant between the front portion 312 c and the back portion 314 c, as shown.

FIG. 20 b is a front view of the soccer ball representation 315 c of FIG. 20 a. Preferably, front portion 312 c comprises container indicia 331 c. Preferably, leg attacher 322 c and retractable length adjuster 324 c also comprises indicia 332 c. Preferably, container indicia 331 c and/or indicia 332 c (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise soccer related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIFA indicia, consistent with other soccer and International football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Major League Soccer (MLS), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Umbro, Adidas™, Mizuno™, Nike™, Coke™, Gatorade™, IBM™, Renaldo, David Beckham, Mia Hamm, Team USA Soccer, San Jose Earthquakes, North Carolina Tarheels, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 c is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 20 c, 20 d, and 20 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 c adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 c comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 c. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 c is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 c at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 c at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 c, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 c, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the soccer ball representation 315 c onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the soccer ball leg-pack 302 c, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 c is attached to the container 307 c, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 c, as shown. Preferably, the light cable 342 c extends through the exterior portion 344 c of the container 307 c, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 c is attached to the cable 342 c from the interior portion of the container 307 c such that the cable 342 c is coupled to the container 307 c. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 c comprises a strap 330 c, as shown, which facilitates attaching the soccer ball representation 315 c to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 c comprises attachment 333 c, which provides for attachment of the container 307 c to strap 330 c, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 c is sewn to both the strap 330 c and the container 307 c, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 c comprises a connector 334 c. Preferably, connector 334 c comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 c comprises clasp portion 336 c that fits into clasp portion 338 c, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 c comprises a loop 337 c for assisting adjuster 340 c (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 c comprises adjuster 340 c, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 c. Preferably, adjuster 340 c is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 c that slides along strap 330 c, pulling strap 330 c tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 21 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel leg-pack 302 d of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 b is a front view of the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d of FIG. 21 a. FIG. 21 c is a back view of the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d of FIG. 21 a. FIG. 21 d is a top view of the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d of FIG. 21 a. FIG. 21 e is a side view of the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d of FIG. 21 a.

Preferably, the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d comprises a front portion 312 d, a back portion 314 d, an access assembly 316 d, a waist attacher 320 d, a leg attacher 322 d and a retractable length adjuster 324 d, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 d comprises a container 307 d resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional racing wheel representation 315 d (or simulation thereof) of an actual racing wheel. Preferably, racing wheel leg-pack 302 d comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 d projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, a one-half portion of a racing wheel is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 d, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion racing wheel. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 d provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 d comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 d is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, racing wheel representation 315 d is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official NASCAR racing wheels are made, preferably a rubber-like material, preferably treadless. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 315 d comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official racing wheels (for example, black rubber, and black or chrome rims). Preferably, the racing wheel representation 315 d is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NASCAR racing wheel.

Preferably, the racing wheel representation 315 d comprises tire body 360 d, preferably smooth, and tire surface 363 d, preferably treadless, as shown in FIG. 21 b, similar to the surface of NASCAR racing wheels. Preferably, the racing wheel representation 315 d comprises rims 364 d that are similar in pattern and appearance to official NASCAR racing wheels, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 d of the racing wheel representation 315 d further comprises racing related indicia (such as “NHRA”) and manufacturing indicia such as Goodyear®, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various racing wheel representation 315 d sizes, such as scaled sizes, miniature sizes, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-wheel materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the racing wheel representation 315 d is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 d comprises an access assembly 316 d. Preferably, access assembly 316 d comprises a zipper 328 d and zipper handle 329 d, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 d (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 d opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 d. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 d, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 d is located at the portion of the container 307 d nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 d do not fall out when access assembly 316 d is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 d is located equidistant between the front portion 312 d and the back portion 314 d, as shown.

FIG. 21 b is a front view of the racing wheel representation 315 d of FIG. 21 a. Preferably, front portion 312 d comprises container indicia 331 d. Preferably, leg attacher 322 d and retractable length adjuster 324 d also comprises indicia 332 d. Preferably, container indicia 331 d and/or indicia 332 d (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise racing related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and driver popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NASCAR indicia, consistent with other racing associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, racers, and racing crews, such as Formula One, Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA), National Hotrod Racing Association (NHRA), American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA), the phrase “rubbin's racin'”, Goodyear™, Ford™, Chevrolet™, Toyota™, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Pennzoil™, Penske™, Budweiser™, Molson™, 7-up™, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 d is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 21 c, 21 d, and 21 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 d adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 d comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 d. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 d is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 d at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 d at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 d, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 d, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the racing wheel representation 315 d onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the racing wheel leg-pack 302 d, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 d is attached to the container 307 d, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 d, as shown. Preferably, the light cable 342 d extends through the exterior portion 344 d of the container 307 d, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 d is attached to the cable 342 d from the interior portion of the container 307 d such that the cable 342 d is coupled to the container 307 d. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 d comprises a strap 330 d, as shown, which facilitates attaching the racing wheel representation 315 d to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 d comprises attachment 333 d, which provides for attachment of the container 307 d, to strap 330 d, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 d is sewn to both the strap 330 d and the container 307 d, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 d comprises a connector 334 d. Preferably, connector 334 d comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 d comprises clasp portion 336 d that fits into clasp portion 338 d, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 d comprises a loop 337 d for assisting adjuster 340 d (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 d comprises adjuster 340 d, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 d. Preferably, adjuster 340 d is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 d that slides along strap 330 d, pulling strap 330 d tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 22 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 b is a front view of the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e of FIG. 22 a. FIG. 22 c is a back view of the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e of FIG. 22 a. FIG. 22 d is a top view of the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e of FIG. 22 a. FIG. 22 e is a side view of the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e of FIG. 22 a.

Preferably, the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e comprises a front portion 312 e, a back portion 314 e, an access assembly 316 e, a waist attacher 320 e, a leg attacher 322 e and a retractable length adjuster 324 e, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 e comprises a container 307 e resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional hockey-puck representation 315 e (or simulation thereof) of an actual hockey-puck. Preferably, hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 e projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, a one-half portion of a hockey-puck is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 e, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion hockey-puck. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 e provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 e comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 e is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, hockey puck representation 315 e is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official National Hockey League (NHL) hockey pucks are made, preferably rubber, preferably hard rubber. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 315 e comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official hockey pucks (for example, black rubber, with multicolor indicia). Preferably, the hockey puck representation 315 e is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NHL hockey puck, with optional dimpling in locations where additional stick and ice gripping may be desired.

Preferably, the hockey puck representation 315 e comprises a puck body 370 e, preferably smooth black rubber, with a circular indicia region 371 e, as shown in FIG. 22 a, similar to the surface of NHL hockey pucks. Preferably, the hockey puck representation 315 e comprises an indicia region 371 e similar in pattern and appearance to official NHL hockey pucks. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, puck manufacturer's preference, etc., other hockey puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Preferably, the container 307 e of the hockey-puck representation 315 e further comprises hockey related indicia (such as “WHL”), etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill In the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, hockey-puck manufacturer's preference, users preference, etc., other hockey-puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various hockey-puck representation 315 e sizes, such as scaled sizes, miniature sizes, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-puck materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical puck colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the hockey-puck representation 315 e is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 e comprises an access assembly 316 e. Preferably, access assembly 316 e comprises a zipper 328 e and zipper handle 329 e, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 e (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 e opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 d, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 e is located at the portion of the container 307 e nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 e do not fall out when access assembly 316 e is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 e is located equidistant between the front portion 312 e and the back portion 314 e, as shown.

FIG. 22 b is a front view of the hockey-puck representation 315 e of FIG. 22 a. Preferably, front portion 312 d comprises container indicia 331 e. Preferably, leg attacher 322 e and retractable length adjuster 324 e also comprises indicia 332 e. Preferably, container indicia 331 e and/or indicia 332 e (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise racing related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NHL indicia, consistent with other hockey associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the International Hockey League (IHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the phrase “the coolest game on earth”, the phrase “Jesus saves; Gretzky rebounds and scores”, CCM, Nike™, Budweiser™, Pizza Hut™, Mario Lemieux, Dominik Hasek, Detroit Redwings, Michigan Wolverines, Spokane Chief, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 e is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 22 c, 22 d, and 22 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 e adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 e comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 e. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 e is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 e at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 e at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 e, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 e, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the hockey-puck representation 315 e onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the hockey-puck leg-pack 302 e, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 e is attached to the container 307 e, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 e, as shown. Preferably, the light cable 342 e extends through the exterior portion 344 e of the container 307 e, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 e is attached to the cable 342 e from the interior portion of the container 307 e such that the cable 342 e is coupled to the container 307 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 e comprises a strap 330., as shown, which facilitates attaching the hockey-puck representation 315 e to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 e comprises attachment 333 e, which provides for attachment of the container 307 e, to strap 330 e, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 e is sewn to both the strap 330 e and the container 307 e, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 e comprises a connector 334 e. Preferably, connector 334 e comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 e comprises clasp portion 336 e that fits into clasp portion 338., as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 e comprises a loop 337 e for assisting adjuster 340 e (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 e comprises adjuster 340 e, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 e. Preferably, adjuster 340 e is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 e that slides along strap 330 e, pulling strap 330 e tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 23 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball leg-pack 302 f of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 b is a front view of the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f of FIG. 23 a. FIG. 23 c is a back view of the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f of FIG. 23 a. FIG. 23 d is a top view of the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f of FIG. 23 a. FIG. 23 e is a side view of the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f of FIG. 23 a.

Preferably, the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f comprises a front portion 312 f, a back portion 314 f, an access assembly 316 f, a waist attacher 320 f, a leg attacher 322 f and a retractable length adjuster 324 f, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 f comprises a container 307 f resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional tennis ball representation 315 f (or simulation thereof) of an actual tennis ball. Preferably, tennis ball leg-pack 302 f comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 f projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the tennis ball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 f, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion tennis ball. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 f provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 f comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 f is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, tennis ball representation 315 f is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis balls are made, preferably felt. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 315 f comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official USTA tennis balls (for example, yellow felt). Preferably, the tennis ball representation 315 f is textured similarly to furry felt texture of an official USTA tennis ball. Preferably, the tennis ball representation 315 f comprises seams 362 f and tennis ball surface 373 f, preferably yellow felt, appearing similar in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official USTA tennis ball, as shown, preferably a white rubber seal. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, tennis ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other tennis ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 f of the tennis ball representation 315 f further comprises tennis ball related indicia (such as “USTA”) etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, non-yellow-felt-colors, non-felt, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various tennis ball representation 315 f sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the tennis ball representation 315 f is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 f comprises an access assembly 316 f. Preferably, access assembly 316 f comprises a zipper 328 f and zipper handle 329 f, as shown. Preferably, as described above, a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 f (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 f opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 f. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 f, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 f is located at the portion of the container 307 f nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 f do not fall out when access assembly 316 f is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 f is located equidistant between the front portion 312 f and the back portion 314 f, as shown.

FIG. 23 b is a front view of the tennis ball representation 315 f of FIG. 23 a. Preferably, front portion 312 f comprises container indicia 331 f. Preferably, leg attacher 322 f and retractable length adjuster 324 f also comprises indicia 332 f. Preferably, container indicia 331 f and/or indicia 332 f (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise tennis related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-USTA indicia, consistent with other tennis ball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, and players, such as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), Canadian Tennis Association (CTA), Wilson™, Nike™, Reebok™, Wilson™, Prince™, Gatorade™, Dunlop™, Slazenger™, Andre Agassi, Anna Kournikova, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 f is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 23 c, 23 d, and 23 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 f adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 f comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 f. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 f is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 f at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 f at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 f, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 f, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the tennis ball representation 315 f onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the tennis ball leg-pack 302 f, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 f is attached to the container 307 f, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 f, as shown. Preferably, the cable 342 f extends through the exterior portion 344 f of the container 307 f, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 f is attached to the cable 342 f from the interior portion of the container 307 f such that the cable 342 f is coupled to the container 307 f. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 f comprises a strap 330 f, as shown, which facilitates attaching the tennis ball representation 315 f to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 f comprises attachment 333 f, which provides for attachment of the container 307 f, to strap 330 f, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 f is sewn to both the strap 330 f and the container 307 f, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 f comprises a connector 334 f. Preferably, connector 334 f comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 f comprises clasp portion 336 f that fits into clasp portion 338 f, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 f comprises a loop 337 f for assisting adjuster 340 f (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 f comprises adjuster 340 f, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 f. Preferably, adjuster 340 f is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 f that slides along strap 330 f, pulling strap 330 f tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 24 a is a perspective view of a baseball leg-pack 302 g of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 b is a front view of the baseball leg-pack 302 g of FIG. 24 a. FIG. 24 c is a back view of the baseball leg-pack 302 g of FIG. 24 a. FIG. 24 d is a top view of the baseball leg-pack 302 g of FIG. 24 a. FIG. 24 e is a side view of the baseball leg-pack 302 g of FIG. 24 a.

Preferably, the baseball leg-pack 302 g comprises a front portion 312 g, a back portion 314 g, an access assembly 316 g, a waist attacher 320 g, a leg attacher 322 g and a retractable length adjuster 324 g, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 g comprises a container 307 g resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional baseball representation 315 g (or simulation thereof) of an actual baseball. Preferably, baseball leg-pack 302 g comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 g projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the baseball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 g, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion baseball. Preferably, a substantially flat back portion 314 g provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 g comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 g is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, baseball representation 315 g is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official Major League Baseball (MLB) baseballs are made, preferably leather, preferably rawhide leather. Preferably, the baseball representation 315 g comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official MLB baseballs (for example, white leather and red stitching). Preferably, the baseball representation 315 g is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official MLB baseball. Preferably, the baseball representation 315 g comprises stitches 366 g, preferably red thread, and baseball surface 365 g, preferably white leather, which appears similar to an official MLB baseball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, baseball manufacturer's preference, etc., other baseball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 g of the baseball representation 315 g further comprises baseball related indicia (such as “MLB”) etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, colors, non-rawhide, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various baseball representation 315 g sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the baseball representation 315 g is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 g comprises an access assembly 316 g. Preferably, access assembly 316 g comprises a zipper 328 g and zipper handle 329 g, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 g (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 g opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 g. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 g, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 g is located at the portion of the container 307 g nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 g do not fall out when access assembly 316 g is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 g is located equidistant between the front portion 312 g and the back portion 314 g, as shown.

FIG. 24 b is a front view of the baseball representation 315 g of FIG. 24 a. Preferably, front portion 312 g comprises container indicia 331 g. Preferably, leg attacher 322 g and retractable length adjuster 324 g also comprises indicia 332 g. Preferably, container indicia 331 g and/or indicia 332 g (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise baseball related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-MLB indicia, consistent with other baseball and softball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), International Baseball Association (IBA), National Softball Association (NSA), Little League Baseball, Mizuno™, Nike™, Reebok™, Rawlings™, Randy Johnson, Barry Bonds, Lisa Fernandez, New York Yankees, Rice Owls, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 g is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 24 c, 24 d, and 24 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 g adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 g comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 g. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 g is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 g at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 g at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 g, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 g, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the baseball representation 315 g onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the baseball leg-pack 302 g, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 g is attached to the container 307 g, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 g, as shown. Preferably, the cable 342 g extends through the exterior portion 344 g of the container 307 g, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 g is attached to the cable 342 g from the interior portion of the container 307 g such that the cable 342 g is coupled to the container 307 g. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 g comprises a strap 330 g, as shown, which facilitates attaching the baseball representation 315 g to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 g comprises attachment 333 g, which provides for attachment of the container 307 g, to strap 330 g, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 g is sewn to both the strap 330 g and the container 307 g, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 g comprises a connector 334 g. Preferably, connector 334 g comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 g comprises clasp portion 336 g that fits into clasp portion 338 g, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 g comprises a loop 337 g for assisting adjuster 340 g (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 g comprises adjuster 340 g, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 g. Preferably, adjuster 340 g is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 g that slides along strap 330 g, pulling strap 330 g tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 25 a is a perspective view of a volleyball leg-pack 302 h of the sports container system 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25 b is a front view of the volleyball leg-pack 302 h of FIG. 25 a. FIG. 25 c is a back view of the volleyball leg-pack 302 h of FIG. 25 a. FIG. 25 d is a top view of the volleyball leg-pack 302 h of FIG. 25 a. FIG. 25 e is a side view of the volleyball leg-pack 302 h of FIG. 25 a.

Preferably, the volleyball leg-pack 302 h comprises a front portion 312 h, a back portion 314 h, an access assembly 316 h, a waist attacher 320 h, a leg attacher 322 h and a retractable length adjuster 324 h, as shown.

Preferably, front portion 312 h comprises a container 307 h resembling, in this embodiment, a 3-dimensional volleyball representation 315 h (or simulation thereof) of an actual volleyball. Preferably, volleyball leg-pack 302 h comprises the specific details of the sports related item represented, such as size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Preferably, the front portion 312 h projects away from the body of the user. Preferably, only a non-full portion of the volleyball is used, using a circumferentially cut plane, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a substantially flat back portion 314 h, which contours to the user's body better than a non-body contoured full portion volleyball. Preferably, substantially flat back portion 314 h provides contour and comfort against the side of the user. Preferably, back portion 314 h comprises an inexpensive, non-aggravating material. Preferably, the front portion 312 h is the most recognizable portion of the sports item represented. For example, volleyball representation 315 h is preferably made of material similar to the material from which official Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) volleyballs are made, preferably leather, preferably white leather. Preferably, the volleyball representation 315 h comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIVB volleyballs (for example, white leather and black seams). Preferably, the volleyball representation 315 h is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official FIVB volleyball. Preferably, the volleyball representation 315 h comprises seams 368 h and volleyball surface 367 h, preferably white leather, which appears similar to an official FIVB volleyball, as shown in FIG. 25 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, volleyball manufacturer's preference, etc., other volleyball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 h of the volleyball representation 315 h further comprises volleyball related indicia (such as “FIVB”) etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manufacturing, cost, materials, etc., other representation arrangements, such as fewer seams, extra seams, colors, non-leather, non-symmetric, abnormally sized, abnormally shaped, alternative indicia, etc., may suffice. Additionally, the portion of the sports item represented need not be about a half-portion. For example, various volleyball representation 315 h sizes, such as child size, junior, adult, extra large, non-life size, miniature, etc., may suffice. In addition, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the volleyball representation 315 h is oriented symmetrically along the leg of a user, as shown in FIG. 17. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, size and dimensions of the sport representation, etc., other orientations, such as transverse, horizontal, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the container 307 h comprises an access assembly 316 h. Preferably, access assembly 316 h comprises a zipper 328 h and zipper handle 329 h, as shown. Preferably, as described above a zipper tag 950 is attached to zipper handle 329 h (not shown). Preferably, the access assembly 316 h opens and closes access to the interior of the container 307 h. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, economic considerations, etc., other methods of opening and closing access to the container 307 h, for example, snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, it is preferable that the access assembly 316 h is located at the portion of the container 307 h nearest the users waist, most preferably along an upper portion, as shown, such that items stored within the container 307 h do not fall out when access assembly 316 h is opened. Preferably, access assembly 316 h is located equidistant between the front portion 312 h and the back portion 314 h, as shown.

FIG. 25 b is a front view of the volleyball representation 315 h of FIG. 25 a. Preferably, front portion 312 h comprises container indicia 331 h. Preferably, leg attacher 322 h and retractable length adjuster 324 h also comprises indicia 332 h. Preferably, container indicia 331 h and/or indicia 332 h (and/or zipper tag indicia 952) comprise volleyball related indicia and or advertising indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIVB indicia, consistent with other volleyball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), USA Volleyball, Pro Beach Volleyball, Tachikara, Mazda™, Southwest Airlines™, Karch Kiraly, Misty May, UCLA Bruins, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 h is a belt clip, preferably a simple U-shaped clip, as shown in FIGS. 25 c, 25 d, and 25 e. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, durability, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the waist attacher 320 h adjacent the waist of a user, such as a pant clip, hook and loop material, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the waist attacher 320 h comprises a retractable length adjuster 324 h. Preferably, the retractable length adjuster 324 h is similar to a retractable key chain such as, for example, a model 15 key-BAC® key retractor (such as available from Key-BAK company, P.O. Box 9088, Ontario, Calif. 91762, USA; Phone (909) 923-7800). Preferably, a user can attach the waist attacher 320 h at or about the waist; then attach the leg attacher 322 h at or along the leg, and the retractable length adjuster 324 h, preferably comprising an internal retractor, preferably a cable 342 h, preferably a light-duty steel cable, will extend to provide a comfortable and secured attachment of the volleyball representation 315 h onto the user, as shown (see FIG. 17). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, user size, economic considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the length of the volleyball leg-pack 302 h, such as adjustable bands, stretchable cord etc., may suffice. Preferably, one end of the retractable length adjuster 324 h is attached to the container 307 h, preferably at a point directly below the waist attacher 320 h, as shown. Preferably, the cable 342 h extends through the exterior portion 344 h of the container 307 h, as shown. Preferably, an end cap fixture 346 h is attached to the cable 342 h from the interior portion of the container 307 h such that the cable 342 h is coupled to the container 307 h. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as durability, retractor/extender function, economics, etc., other methods of cable attachment, may suffice.

Preferably, leg attacher 322 h comprises a strap 330 h, as shown, which facilitates attaching the volleyball ball representation 315 h to the leg of a user. Preferably, strap 330 h comprises attachment 333 h, which provides for attachment of the container 307 h, to strap 330 h, as shown. Preferably, attachment 333 h is sewn to both the strap 330 h and the container 307 h, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 h comprises a connector 334 h. Preferably, connector 334 h comprises a clasping mechanism. Preferably, connector 334 h comprises clasp portion 336 h that fits into clasp portion 338 h, as shown. Preferably, clasp portion 336 h comprises a loop 337 h for assisting adjuster 340 h (as discussed below). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other connector arrangements, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-clasps, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, strap 330 h comprises adjuster 340 h, as shown, for tightening or loosening by adjusting the length of strap 330 h. Preferably, adjuster 340 h is a traditional adjuster, comprising a bracket 339 h that slides along strap 330 h, pulling strap 330 h tight against the leg. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, materials, etc., other adjusters, such as pinching adjusters, spacers, straps with greater elasticity, Velcro™, hooks, non-traditional adjusters, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 26 a is a perspective view of a football tote bag 404, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment 402 of the present invention (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user). FIG. 26 b is a front view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a. FIG. 26 c is a back view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a. FIG. 26 d is a top view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a. FIG. 26 e is a side view of the football tote bag of FIG. 26 a. Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a set of tote-bags. Preferably, one of such tote-bags is football tote-bag 404, as shown in embodiment 402. Preferably, football tote-bag 404 comprises a front portion 410 and a back portion 412, as shown (embodying herein container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; and embodying herein wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion).

Preferably, all the tote-bags 404 of the sports container system 400 comprises an opening, such as opening 406, for accessing the interior of the tote-bag 404, as shown. Preferably, every opening comprises a tensioned closure 408, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure is attached to the tote-bag 404 using stitching 409 (as shown in FIG. 42 a). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 404, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 404 comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the tote-bag 404, as shown (embodying herein strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user). Preferably, the tote-bag 404 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the tote-bag 404, preferably by stitching 442 (embodying herein attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means; and embodying herein connection means for assisting in securing said strap means to the user). Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the tote-bag 404, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 410 and a back portion 412 of the tote-bag 404 make up an entire football or football-like representation. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 comprises the specific details of a typical football including size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the football tote-bag, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 is made of material similar to the material from which official footballs are made, such as National Football League (NFL) footballs, preferably leather, preferably cowhide leather. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official footballs (for example, NFL brown leather, black seams, white lacing). Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 is textured similarly to the dimpled or “pebbled” texture of an official football (NFL, for example). Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 comprises seams 416 and 418 that appear similar to the seams of an official NFL football, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with brown threading. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 comprises lacing 420 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official NFL football, as shown. Preferably, other football marks and lines, such as lacing line 422, are painted on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, football manufacturer's preference, etc., other football tote-bag 404 representations, such as college, high school, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 26 b is a front view of the football tote-bag of FIG. 26 a. Preferably, front portion 410 comprises indicia 424. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952. Preferably, indicia 424 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise football related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NFL indicia, consistent with other football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Canadian Football League (CFL), Arena Football League (AFL), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Oakland Raiders, Ohio State Buckeyes, Arizona Rattlers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 406 and tensioned closure 408 are located at the top of the tote-bag 404, as shown, such that items stored within the tote-bag 404 do not fall out when the closure 408 is opened. Preferably, the opening 406 and tensioned closure 408 are located between the front portion 410 and the back portion 412, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 406 and tensioned closure 408 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 406 and tensioned closure 408, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, tote-bag 404 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tote-bag 404 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside tote-bag 404 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within the tote-bag 404. FIG. 26 e is a side view of the football tote-bag of FIG. 26 a. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404 is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual football (embodying herein wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and embodying herein essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport). Preferably, only a full portion of the football is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 412, as shown. Preferably, football tote-bag 404 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tote-bag 404 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 27 a is a perspective view of a basketball tote-bag 454, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 27 b is a front view of the basketball tote-bag 454 of FIG. 27 a. FIG. 27 c is a back view of the basketball tote-bag 454 of FIG. 27 a. FIG. 27 d is a top view of the basketball tote-bag 454 of FIG. 27 a. FIG. 27 e is a side view of the basketball tote-bag of FIG. 27 a. Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a basketball tote-bag 454, as shown in embodiment 452. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454 comprises a front portion 460 and a back portion 462, as shown. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454 comprises an opening 456 for accessing the interior of the basketball tote-bag 454, as shown (embodying herein access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means).

Preferably, opening 456 comprises a tensioned closure 458, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure is attached to the basketball tote-bag 454 using stitching 409 (as shown in FIG. 42 a). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 454, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the basketball tote-bag 454 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the basketball tote-bag 454, as shown. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the basketball tote-bag 454, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the basketball tote-bag 454, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 460 and a back portion 462 of the basketball tote-bag 454 make up an entire (full-portion) basketball or basketball-like representation. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 comprises the specific details of a typical basketball including size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the football tote-bag, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 is made of material similar to the material from which official basketballs are made, such as official National Basketball Association (NBA) basketballs are made, preferably leather. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NBA basketballs (for example, brownish-orange leather and black seams). Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 is textured similarly to the dimpled or pebbled texture of an official NBA basketball. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 comprises seams 468 that appear similar, in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official NBA basketball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with black threading and sealed with black rubber. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, basketball manufacturer's preference, etc., other basketball tote-bag 454 representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 27 b is a front view of the basketball tote-bag 454 of FIG. 27 a. Preferably, front portion 460 comprises indicia 474. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, indicia 474 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise basketball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NBA indicia, consistent with other basketball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers, Duke Blue devils, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 456 and tensioned closure 458 are located at the top of the basketball tote-bag 454, as shown, such that items stored within the basketball tote-bag 454 do not fall out when the closure 458 is opened. Preferably, the opening 456 and tensioned closure 458 are located between the front portion 460 and the back portion 462, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 456 and tensioned closure 458 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 456 and tensioned closure 458, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside basketball tote-bag 454 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within basketball tote-bag 454.

FIG. 27 e is a side view of the of the basketball tote-bag 454 of FIG. 27 a. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454 is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual basketball. Preferably, only a full portion of the basketball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 462, as shown. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other basketball tote-bag 454 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 28 a is a perspective view of a soccer ball tote bag 484, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 28 b is a front view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 of FIG. 28 a. FIG. 28 c is a back view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 of FIG. 28 a. FIG. 28 d is a top view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 of FIG. 28 a. FIG. 28 e is a side view of the soccer ball tote bag 484 of FIG. 28 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a soccer ball tote-bag 484, as shown in embodiment 482. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises a front portion 490 and a back portion 492, as shown. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises an opening 486 for accessing the interior of the soccer ball tote-bag 484, as shown.

Preferably, opening 486 comprises a tensioned closure 488, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 488 is attached to the soccer ball tote-bag 484 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 484, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the soccer ball tote-bag 484, as shown. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the soccer ball tote-bag 484, preferably by stitching 442 (embodying herein connection means for assisting in securing said strap means to the user). Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the soccer ball tote-bag 484, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 490 and a back portion 492 of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 make up an entire (full-portion) soccer ball or soccer-ball-like representation. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises material similar to the material from which official Federal International Football (referred to as soccer in the US) Association (FIFA) soccer balls are made, preferably leather or synthetic leather. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIFA soccer balls (for example, white leather optionally comprising colorful abstract or geometric shapes). Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 is textured similarly to the slick and glossy texture of an official FIFA soccer ball. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises seams 498 that appear similar to the seams of an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown, preferably stitched with small white threading. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 comprises seams 498 that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, soccer ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other soccer ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the soccer ball tote-bag 484, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 28 b is a front view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 of FIG. 28 a. Preferably, front portion 490 comprises indicia 494. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, indicia 494 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise soccer ball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIFA indicia, consistent with other soccer and International football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Major League Soccer (MLS), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Team USA Soccer, North Carolina Tarheels, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 486 and tensioned closure 488 are located at the top of the soccer ball tote-bag 484, as shown, such that items stored within the soccer ball tote-bag 484 do not fall out when the closure 488 is opened. Preferably, the opening 486 and tensioned closure 488 are located between the front portion 490 and the back portion 492, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 486 and tensioned closure 488 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 486 and tensioned closure 488, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside soccer ball tote-bag 484 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within soccer ball tote-bag 484.

FIG. 28 e is a side view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484 of FIG. 28 a. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484 is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual soccer ball. Preferably, only a full portion of the soccer ball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 492, as shown. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other soccer ball tote-bag 484 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 29 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel tote bag 504, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment 502 of the present invention. FIG. 29 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a. FIG. 29 c is a back view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a. FIG. 29 d is a top view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a. FIG. 29 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a racing wheel tote bag 504, as shown in embodiment 502. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises a front portion 510 and a back portion 512, as shown. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises an opening 506 for accessing the interior of the racing wheel tote bag 504, as shown.

Preferably, opening 506 comprises a tensioned closure 508, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 508 is attached to the racing wheel tote bag 504 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability, etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 504, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the racing wheel tote bag 504 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the racing wheel tote bag 504, as shown. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the racing wheel tote bag 504, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the racing wheel tote bag 504, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 510 and a back portion 512 of the racing wheel tote bag 504 make up an entire (full-portion) racing wheel or racing wheel-like representation. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises material similar to the material from which official NASCAR racing wheels are made, preferably a rubber-like material, preferably treadless. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official racing wheels (for example, black rubber, and black or chrome rims). Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NASCAR racing wheel.

Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises treadless tire surface 518 and smooth tire body 516, as shown in FIG. 29 a, representing a surface similar to the surface of NASCAR racing wheels. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 comprises rims 515 that are similar in pattern and appearance to official NASCAR racing wheels, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the racing wheel tote bag 504, such as scaled sizes to represent the racing industry, for example quarter-sized, HO-racing size, miniature size, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, rim arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical wheel colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 29 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a. Preferably, front portion 510 comprises indicia 514. Preferably, rear portion 512 also comprises indicia 514. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, indicia 514 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise racing related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NASCAR indicia, consistent with other racing associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, racers, and racing crews, such as Formula One, Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA), National Hotrod Racing Association (NHRA), American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA), Goodyear, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Pennzoil, Penske, Budweiser, Molson, 7-up, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 506 and tensioned closure 508 are located at the top of the racing wheel tote bag 504, as shown, such that items stored within the racing wheel tote bag 504 do not fall out when the closure 508 is opened. Preferably, the opening 506 and tensioned closure 508 are located between the front portion 510 and the back portion 512, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 506 and tensioned closure 508 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 506 and tensioned closure 508, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside racing wheel tote bag 504 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within racing wheel tote bag 504.

FIG. 29 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag 504 of FIG. 29 a. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504 is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual racing wheel. Preferably, only a full portion of the racing wheel is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 512, as shown. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other racing wheel tote bag 504 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 30 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck tote bag 524, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment 522 of the present invention. FIG. 30 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a. FIG. 30 c is a back view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a. FIG. 30 d is a top view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a. FIG. 30 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a hockey-puck tote bag 524, as shown in embodiment 522. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises a front portion 530 and a back portion 532, as shown. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises an opening 526 for accessing the interior of the hockey-puck tote bag 524, as shown.

Preferably, opening 526 comprises a tensioned closure 528, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 528 is attached to the hockey-puck tote bag 524 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 524, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the hockey-puck tote bag 524, as shown. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the hockey-puck tote bag 524, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the hockey-puck tote bag 524, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 530 and a back portion 532 of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 make up an entire (full-portion) hockey puck or hockey-puck-like representation. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises of material similar to the material from which official National Hockey League (NHL) hockey pucks are made, preferably rubber, preferably hard rubber. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official hockey pucks (for example, black rubber, with multicolor indicia). Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NHL hockey puck, with optional dimpling in locations where additional stick and ice gripping may be desired.

Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises a smooth black rubber puck body 540, with a circular indicia region 541, as shown in FIG. 30 a, similar to the surface of NHL hockey pucks. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 comprises an indicia region 541 similar in pattern and appearance to official NHL hockey pucks. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, puck manufacturer's preference, etc., other hockey puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the hockey-puck tote bag 524, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the hockey puck, for example ten-times normal hockey puck sized, twenty times normal hockey puck sized, miniature size, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 30 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a. Preferably, front portion 530 comprises circular indicia region 541. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, circular indicia region 541 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise hockey related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NHL indicia, consistent with other hockey associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the International Hockey League (IHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Budweiser, Pizza Hut, Mario Lemieux, Dominik Hasek, Detroit Redwings, Michigan Wolverines, Spokane Chief, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 526 and tensioned closure 528 are located at the top 531 of the hockey-puck tote bag 524, as shown, such that items stored within the hockey-puck tote bag 524 do not fall out when the closure 528 is opened. Preferably, the opening 526 and tensioned closure 528 are located between the front portion 530 and the back portion 532, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 526 and tensioned closure 528 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 526 and tensioned closure 528, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside hockey-puck tote bag 524 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within hockey-puck tote bag 524.

FIG. 30 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524 of FIG. 30 a. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524 is a 3-dimensional hollow portion of an actual hockey puck. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a hockey puck is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 532, as shown. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other hockey-puck tote bag 524 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 31 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball tote bag 544, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 31 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag 544 of FIG. 31 a. FIG. 31 c is a back view of the tennis ball tote bag 544 of FIG. 31 a. FIG. 31 d is a top view of the tennis ball tote bag 544 of FIG. 31 a. FIG. 31 e is a side view of the tennis ball tote bag 544 of FIG. 31 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a tennis ball tote bag 544, as shown in embodiment 542. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises a front portion 550 and a back portion 552, as shown. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises an opening 556 for accessing the interior of the tennis ball tote bag 544, as shown.

Preferably, opening 556 comprises a tensioned closure 558, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 558 is attached to the tennis ball tote bag 544 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 544, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the tennis ball tote bag 544 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the tennis ball tote bag 544, as shown. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the tennis ball tote bag 544, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the tennis ball tote bag 544, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 550 and a back portion 552 of the tennis ball tote bag 544 make up an entire (full-portion) tennis ball or tennis-ball-like representation. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises of material similar to the material from which official United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis balls are made, preferably felt. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official USTA tennis balls (for example, yellow felt). Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544 is textured similarly to furry felt texture of an official USTA tennis ball. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544 comprises seams 562 and yellow felt 563, appearing similar in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official USTA tennis ball, as shown, preferably a white rubber seal. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, tennis ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other tennis ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the tennis ball tote bag 544, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the tennis ball, for example ten-times normal tennis ball sized, twenty times normal tennis ball sized, normal size, miniature size, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 31 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag 544 of FIG. 31 a. Preferably, front portion 550 comprises indicia 551. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952. Preferably, indicia 551 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise tennis related indicia (not shown). Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-USTA indicia, consistent with other tennis ball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, and players, such as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), Canadian tennis Association (CTA), Wilson, Nike, Reebok, Wilson, Prince, Gatorade, Dunlop, Slazenger, Andre Agassi, Anna Kournikova, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 556 and tensioned closure 558 are located at the top 561 of the tennis ball tote bag 544, as shown, such that items stored within the tennis ball tote bag 544 do not fall out when the closure 558 is opened. Preferably, the opening 556 and tensioned closure 558 are located between the front portion 550 and the back portion 552, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 556 and tensioned closure 558 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 556 and tensioned closure 558, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside tennis ball tote bag 544 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within tennis ball tote bag 544.

Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544 is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual tennis ball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a tennis ball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 552, as shown. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tennis ball tote bag 544 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 32 a is a perspective view of a baseball tote bag 574, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 32 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag 574 of FIG. 32 a. FIG. 32 c is a back view of the baseball tote bag 574 of FIG. 32 a. FIG. 32 d is a top view of the baseball tote bag 574 of FIG. 32 a. FIG. 32 e is a side view of the baseball tote bag 574 of FIG. 32 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a baseball tote bag 574, as shown in embodiment 572. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 comprises a front portion 580 and a back portion 582, as shown. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 comprises an opening 576 for accessing the interior of the baseball tote bag 574, as shown.

Preferably, opening 576 comprises a tensioned closure 578, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 578 is attached to the baseball tote bag 574 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 574, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the baseball tote bag 574 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the baseball tote bag 574, as shown. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the baseball tote bag 574, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the baseball tote bag 574, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors, may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 580 and a back portion 582 of the baseball tote bag 574 make up an entire (full-portion) baseball or baseball-like representation. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574 is comprised of material similar to the material from which official Major League Baseball (MLB) baseballs are made, preferably leather, preferably, rawhide leather. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official MLB baseballs (for example, white leather and red stitching). Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official MLB baseball. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574 comprises stitches 586 and white leather 585 that appears similar to an official MLB baseball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with red thread. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, baseball manufacturer's preference, etc., other baseball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the baseball tote bag 574, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the baseball, for example ten-times normal baseball sized, twenty times normal baseball sized, normal sized, miniature sized, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 32 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag 574 of FIG. 32 a. Preferably, front portion 580 comprises indicia 581. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, indicia 581 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise baseball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-MLB indicia, consistent with other baseball and softball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), International Baseball Association (IBA), National Softball Association (NSA), Little League Baseball, New York Yankees, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 576 and tensioned closure 578 are located at the top 571 of the baseball tote bag 574, as shown, such that items stored within the baseball tote bag 574 do not fall out when the closure 578 is opened. Preferably, the opening 576 and tensioned closure 578 are located between the front portion 580 and the back portion 582, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 576 and tensioned closure 578 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 556 and tensioned closure 558, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside baseball tote bag 574 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within baseball tote bag 574.

Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574 is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual baseball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a baseball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 582, as shown. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other baseball tote bag 574 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 33 a is a perspective view of a volleyball tote bag, having detachable straps 414, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag 604 of FIG. 33 a. FIG. 33 c is a back view of the volleyball tote bag 604 of FIG. 33 a. FIG. 33 d is a top view of the volleyball tote bag 604 of FIG. 33 a. FIG. 33 e is a side view of the volleyball tote bag 604 of FIG. 33 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400 comprises a volleyball tote bag 604, as shown in embodiment 602. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 comprises a front portion 610 and a back portion 612, as shown. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 comprises an opening 606 for accessing the interior of the volleyball tote bag 604, as shown.

Preferably, opening 606 comprises a tensioned closure 608, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure 578 is attached to the volleyball tote bag 604 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 604, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, the volleyball tote bag 604 also preferably comprises at least one removable strap 414, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414 comprises an attacher 430 and 432, preferably quick-connectors as shown, that are preferably permanently connected to the strap 414, preferably by a looped portion of the strap 438, preferably riveted 440, to provide for removable attachment of the strap 414 to the volleyball tote bag 604, as shown. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 comprises two connectors 434 and 436, preferably rings, preferably metal rings, preferably permanently attached to the volleyball tote bag 604, preferably by stitching 442. Preferably, the attacher 430 and 432 will couple to the respective connectors 434 and 436 such that the strap will connect to the volleyball tote bag 604, as shown.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container detachability, etc., other attachers, such as buckles, Velcro™, hooks, non-stitch attachers, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other connectors may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 610 and a back portion 612 of the volleyball tote bag 604 make up an entire (full-portion) volleyball or volleyball-like representation. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604 is comprised of material similar to the material from which official Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) volleyballs are made, preferably leather, preferably white leather. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604 comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIVB volleyballs (for example, white leather and black seams). Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604 is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official FIVB volleyball. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604 comprises black seams 616 and white leather 618 that appears similar to an official FIVB volleyball, as shown in FIG. 33 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, volleyball manufacturer's preference, etc., other volleyball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the volleyball tote bag 604, such as adult-sized, child sized, normal sized, miniature sized, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 33 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag 604 of FIG. 33 a. Preferably, front portion 610 comprises indicia 611. Preferably, strap 414 comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, strap 414 may further comprise an access tag such as that described above in zipper tag 950, and zipper tag indicia, for example, zipper tag indicia 952 (not shown). Preferably, indicia 611 and/or strap indicia 110 and/or zipper tag indicia 952 comprise volleyball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIVB indicia, consistent with other volleyball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), USA Volleyball, Pro Beach Volleyball, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 606 and tensioned closure 608 are located at the top 617 of the volleyball tote bag 604, as shown, such that items stored within the volleyball tote bag 604 do not fall out when the closure 608 is opened. Preferably, the opening 606 and tensioned closure 608 are located between the front portion 610 and the back portion 612, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 606 and tensioned closure 608 arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 606 and tensioned closure 608, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside volleyball tote bag 604 (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within volleyball tote bag 604.

Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604 is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual volleyball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a volleyball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 612, as shown. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604 is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other volleyball tote bag 604 configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 34 a is a perspective view of a football tote bag 404*, having permanently attached handles, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 34 b is a front view of the football tote bag 404* of FIG. 34 a. FIG. 34 c is a back view of the football tote bag 404* of FIG. 34 a. FIG. 34 d is a top view of the football tote bag 404* of FIG. 34 a. FIG. 34 e is a side view of the football tote bag 404* of FIG. 34 a. Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a set of tote-bags 404*. Preferably, one of such tote-bags 404* is football tote-bag 404*, as shown in embodiment 402*. Preferably, football tote-bag 404* comprises a front portion 410* and a back portion 412*, as shown.

Preferably, all the tote-bags 404* of the sports container system 400* comprises an opening, such as opening 406*, for accessing the interior of the tote-bag 404*, as shown. Preferably, every opening comprises a tensioned closure 408*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure is attached to the tote-bag 404* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the totebag 404*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 404* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 404*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, no straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 410* and a back portion 412* of the tote-bag 404* make up an entire football or football-like representation. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* comprises the specific details of a typical football including size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the football tote-bag, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, ‘zebra’ stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* is made of material similar to the material from which official footballs are made, such as National Football League (NFL) footballs, preferably leather, preferably cowhide leather. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official footballs (for example, NFL brown leather, black seams, white lacing). Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* is textured similarly to the dimpled or “pebbled” texture of an official football (NFL, for example). Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* comprises seams 416* and 418* that appear similar to the seams of an official NFL football, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with brown threading. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* comprises lacing 420* that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official NFL football, as shown. Preferably, other football marks and lines, such as lacing line 422*, are painted on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, football manufacturer's preference, etc., other football tote-bag 404* representations, such as college, high school, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 34 b is a front view of the football tote-bag of FIG. 34 a. Preferably, front portion 410* comprises indicia 424*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 424* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise football related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NFL indicia, consistent with other football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Canadian Football League (CFL), Arena Football League (AFL), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Ohio State Buckeyes, Arizona Rattlers, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 406* and tensioned closure 408* are located at the top of the tote-bag 404*, as shown, such that items stored within the tote-bag 404* do not fall out when the closure 408* is opened. Preferably, the opening 406* and tensioned closure 408* are located between the front portion 412* and the back portion 410*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 406* and tensioned closure 408* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 406* and tensioned closure 408*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, tote-bag 404* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tote-bag 404* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside tote-bag 404* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within tote-bag 404*.

FIG. 34 e is a side view of the football tote-bag of FIG. 34 a. Preferably, the football tote-bag 404* is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual football. Preferably, only a full portion of the football is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 114*, as shown. Preferably, football tote-bag 404* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tote-bag 404* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 35 a is a perspective view of a basketball tote-bag 454*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 b is a front view of the basketball tote-bag 454* of FIG. 35 a. FIG. 35 c is a back view of the basketball tote-bag 454* of FIG. 35 a. FIG. 35 d is a top view of the basketball tote-bag 454* of FIG. 35 a. FIG. 35 e is a side view of the basketball tote-bag of FIG. 35 a. Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a basketball tote-bag 454*, as shown in embodiment 452*. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454* comprises a front portion 460* and a back portion 462*, as shown. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454* comprises an opening 456* for accessing the interior of the basketball tote-bag 454*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 456* comprises a tensioned closure 458*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure is attached to the basketball tote-bag 454* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 454*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 454* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 454*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 460* and a back portion 462* of the basketball tote-bag 454* make up an entire (full-portion) basketball or basketball-like representation. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* comprises the specific details of a typical basketball including size, shape, material, color, texture, seam arrangement, symmetry, common indicia, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the football tote-bag, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* is made of material similar to the material from which official basketballs are made, such as official National Basketball Association (NBA) basketballs are made, preferably leather. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official NBA basketballs (for example, brownish-orange leather and black seams). Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* is textured similarly to the dimpled or pebbled texture of an official NBA basketball. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* comprises seams 468* that appear similar, in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official NBA basketball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with black threading and sealed with black rubber. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, basketball manufacturer's preference, etc., other basketball tote-bag 454* representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 35 b is a front view of the basketball tote-bag 454* of FIG. 35 a. Preferably, front portion 460* comprises indicia 474*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 474* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise basketball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NBA indicia, consistent with other basketball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), Los Angeles Lakers, Duke Blue devils, Houston Comets, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 456* and tensioned closure 458* are located at the top of the basketball tote-bag 454*, as shown, such that items stored within the basketball tote-bag 454* do not fall out when the closure 458* is opened. Preferably, the opening 456* and tensioned closure 458* are located between the front portion 460* and the back portion 462*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 456* and tensioned closure 458* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 456* and tensioned closure 458*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside basketball tote-bag 454* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within basketball tote-bag 454*.

FIG. 35 e is a side view of the of the basketball tote-bag 454* of FIG. 35 a. Preferably, the basketball tote-bag 454* is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual basketball. Preferably, only a full portion of the basketball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 462*, as shown. Preferably, basketball tote-bag 454* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other basketball tote-bag 454* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 36 a is a perspective view of a soccer ball tote bag 484*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 36 b is a front view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* of FIG. 36 a. FIG. 36 c is a back view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* of FIG. 36 a. FIG. 36 d is a top view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* of FIG. 36 a. FIG. 36 e is a side view of the soccer ball tote bag 484* of FIG. 36 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a soccer ball tote-bag 484*, as shown in embodiment 482*. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises a front portion 490* and a back portion 492*, as shown. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises an opening 486* for accessing the interior of the soccer ball tote-bag 484*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 486* comprises a tensioned closure 488*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 488* is attached to the soccer ball tote-bag 484* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 484*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 484* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 484*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 490* and a back portion 492* of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* make up an entire (full-portion) soccer ball or soccer-ball-like representation. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises material similar to the material from which official Federal International Football (referred to as soccer in the US) Association (FIFA) soccer balls are made, preferably leather or synthetic leather. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIFA soccer balls (for example, white leather optionally comprising colorful abstract or geometric shapes). Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* is textured similarly to the slick and glossy texture of an official FIFA soccer ball. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises seams 498* that appear similar to the seams of an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown, preferably stitched with small white threading. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* comprises seams 498* that are similar in pattern and appearance to an official FIFA soccer ball, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, soccer ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other soccer ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the soccer ball tote-bag 484*, such as adult, child, miniature, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, seam arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical ball colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 36 b is a front view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* of FIG. 36 a. Preferably, front portion 490* comprises indicia 494*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 494* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise soccer ball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIFA indicia, consistent with other soccer and International football associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as Major League Soccer (MLS), Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), North Carolina Tarheels, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 486* and tensioned closure 488* are located at the top of the soccer ball tote-bag 484*, as shown, such that items stored within the soccer ball tote-bag 484* do not fall out when the closure 488* is opened. Preferably, the opening 486* and tensioned closure 488* are located between the front portion 490* and the back portion 492*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 486* and tensioned closure 488* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 486* and tensioned closure 488*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside soccer ball tote-bag 484* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within soccer ball tote-bag 484*.

FIG. 36 e is a side view of the soccer ball tote-bag 484* of FIG. 36 a. Preferably, the soccer ball tote-bag 484* is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual soccer ball. Preferably, only a full portion of the soccer ball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 492*, as shown. Preferably, soccer ball tote-bag 484* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other soccer ball tote-bag 484* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 37 a is a perspective view of a racing wheel tote bag 504*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment 502* of the present invention. FIG. 37 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a. FIG. 37 c is a back view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a. FIG. 37 d is a top view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a. FIG. 37 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a racing wheel tote bag 504*, as shown in embodiment 502*. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises a front portion 510* and a back portion 512*, as shown. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises an opening 506* for accessing the interior of the racing wheel tote bag 504*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 506* comprises a tensioned closure 508*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 508* is attached to the racing wheel tote bag 504* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 504*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 504* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 504*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 510* and a back portion 512* of the racing wheel tote bag 504* make up an entire (full-portion) racing wheel or racing wheel-like representation. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises material similar to the material from which official NASCAR racing wheels are made, preferably a rubber-like material, preferably treadless. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official racing wheels (for example, black rubber, and black or chrome rims). Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NASCAR racing wheel.

Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises treadless tire surface 518* and smooth tire body 516*, as shown in FIG. 37 a, representing a surface similar to the surface of NASCAR racing wheels. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* comprises rims 515* that are similar in pattern and appearance to official NASCAR racing wheels, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, wheel manufacturer's preference, racer's preference, etc., other racing wheel representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different treads, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the racing wheel tote bag 504*, such as scaled sizes to represent the racing industry, for example quarter-sized, HO-racing size, miniature size, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as user preferences, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other shapes, materials, colors, textures, rim arrangements, symmetry, common indicia, etc., may suffice. For example, alternate materials, such as rubber, plastic, felt, non-leather, suede, metal, non-ball materials, Velcro™, etc., may suffice. Also, alternative color configurations, such as bright colors, advertiser-specific colors, stripes, theme-specific colors, non-typical wheel colors, glittered, iridescent, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 37 b is a front view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a. Preferably, front portion 510* comprises indicia 514*. Preferably, rear portion 512* also comprises indicia 514*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 494* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise racing related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NASCAR indicia, consistent with other racing associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, racers, and racing crews, such as Formula One, Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA), National Hotrod Racing Association (NHRA), American Motorcycle Racing Association (AMRA), Goodyear, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Rusty Wallace, Pennzoil, Penske, Budweiser, Molson, 7-up, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 506* and tensioned closure 508* are located at the top of the racing wheel tote bag 504*, as shown, such that items stored within the racing wheel tote bag 504* do not fall out when the closure 508* is opened. Preferably, the opening 506* and tensioned closure 508* are located between the front portion 510* and the back portion 512*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 506* and tensioned closure 508* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 506* and tensioned closure 508*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside racing wheel tote bag 504* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within racing wheel tote bag 504*.

FIG. 37 e is a side view of the racing wheel tote bag 504* of FIG. 37 a. Preferably, the racing wheel tote bag 504* is a 3-dimensional portion of an actual racing wheel. Preferably, only a full portion of the racing wheel is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 512*, as shown. Preferably, racing wheel tote bag 504* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other racing wheel tote bag 504* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 38 a is a perspective view of a hockey-puck tote bag 524*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment 522* of the present invention. FIG. 38 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a. FIG. 38 c is a back view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a. FIG. 38 d is a top view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a. FIG. 38 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a hockey-puck tote bag 524*, as shown in embodiment 522*. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises a front portion 530* and a back portion 532*, as shown. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises an opening 526* for accessing the interior of the hockey-puck tote bag 524*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 526* comprises a tensioned closure 528*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 528* is attached to the hockey-puck tote bag 524* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 524*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, preferably, tote-bag 524* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 524*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 530* and a back portion 532* of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* make up an entire (full-portion) hockey puck or hockey-puck-like representation. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises of material similar to the material from which official National Hockey League (NHL) hockey pucks are made, preferably rubber, preferably hard rubber. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official hockey pucks (for example, black rubber, with multicolor indicia). Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* is textured similarly to the smooth processed rubber texture of an official NHL hockey puck, with optional dimpling in locations where additional stick and ice gripping may be desired.

Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises a smooth black rubber puck body 540*, with a circular indicia region 541*, as shown in FIG. 38 a, similar to the surface of NHL hockey pucks. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* comprises an indicia region 541* similar in pattern and appearance to official NHL hockey pucks. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, puck manufacturer's preference, etc., other hockey puck representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the hockey-puck tote bag 524*, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the hockey puck, for example ten-times normal hockey puck sized, twenty times normal hockey puck sized, miniature size, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 38 b is a front view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a. Preferably, front portion 530* comprises indicia region 541*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia region 541* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise hockey related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-NHL indicia, consistent with other hockey associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the International Hockey League (IHL), Western Hockey League (WHL), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Budweiser, Pizza Hut, Mario Lemieux, Dominik Hasek, Detroit Redwings, Michigan Wolverines, Spokane Chief, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 526* and tensioned closure 528* are located at the top 531* of the hockey-puck tote bag 524*, as shown, such that items stored within the hockey-puck tote bag 524* do not fall out when the closure 528* is opened. Preferably, the opening 526* and tensioned closure 528* are located between the front portion 530* and the back portion 532*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 526* and tensioned closure 528* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 526* and tensioned closure 528*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside hockey-puck tote bag 524* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within hockey-puck tote bag 524*.

FIG. 38 e is a side view of the hockey-puck tote bag 524* of FIG. 38 a. Preferably, the hockey-puck tote bag 524* is a 3-dimensional hollow portion of an actual hockey puck. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a hockey puck is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 532*, as shown. Preferably, hockey-puck tote bag 524* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other hockey-puck tote bag 524* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 39 a is a perspective view of a tennis ball tote bag 544*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag 544* of FIG. 39 a. FIG. 39 c is a back view of the tennis ball tote bag 544* of FIG. 39 a. FIG. 39 d is a top view of the tennis ball tote bag 544* of FIG. 39 a. FIG. 39 e is a side view of the tennis ball tote bag 544* of FIG. 39 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a tennis ball tote bag 544*, as shown in embodiment 542*. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544* comprises a front portion 550* and a back portion 552*, as shown. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544* comprises an opening 556* for accessing the interior of the tennis ball tote bag 544*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 556* comprises a tensioned closure 558*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 558* is attached to the tennis ball tote bag 544* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 544*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 544* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 544*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, no straps four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 550* and a back portion 552* of the tennis ball tote bag 544* make up an entire (full-portion) tennis ball or tennis-ball-like representation. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544* comprises of material similar to the material from which official United States Tennis Association (USTA) tennis balls are made, preferably felt. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official USTA tennis balls (for example, yellow felt). Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544* is textured similarly to furry felt texture of an official USTA tennis ball. Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544* comprises seams 562* and yellow felt 563*, appearing similar in pattern and appearance, to the seams of an official USTA tennis ball, as shown, preferably a white rubber seal. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, tennis ball manufacturer's preference, etc., other tennis ball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the tennis ball tote bag 544*, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the tennis ball, for example ten-times normal tennis ball sized, twenty times normal tennis ball sized, normal size, miniature size, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 39 b is a front view of the tennis ball tote bag 544* of FIG. 39 a. Preferably, front portion 550* comprises indicia 551*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 551* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise tennis related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-USTA indicia, consistent with other tennis ball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, and players, such as the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), Canadian tennis Association (CTA), Wilson, Nike, Reebok, Wilson, Prince, Gatorade, Dunlop, Slazenger, Andre Agassi, Anna Kournikova, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 556* and tensioned closure 558* are located at the top 561* of the tennis ball tote bag 544*, as shown, such that items stored within the tennis ball tote bag 544* do not fall out when the closure 558* is opened. Preferably, the opening 556* and tensioned closure 558* are located between the front portion 550* and the back portion 552*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 556* and tensioned closure 558* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 556* and tensioned closure 558*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside tennis ball tote bag 544* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within tennis ball tote bag 544*.

Preferably, the tennis ball tote bag 544* is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual tennis ball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a tennis ball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 552*, as shown. Preferably, tennis ball tote bag 544* is arranged so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other tennis ball tote bag 544* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 40 a is a perspective view of a baseball tote bag 574*, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 40 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag 574* of FIG. 40 a. FIG. 40 c is a back view of the baseball tote bag 574* of FIG. 40 a. FIG. 40 d is a top view of the baseball tote bag 574* of FIG. 40 a. FIG. 40 e is a side view of the baseball tote bag 574* of FIG. 40 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a baseball tote bag 574*, as shown in embodiment 572*. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574* comprises a front portion 580* and a back portion 582*, as shown. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574* comprises an opening 576* for accessing the interior of the baseball tote bag 574*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 576* comprises a tensioned closure 578*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 578* is attached to the baseball tote bag 574* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 574*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, as described above, preferably, tote-bag 574* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 574*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 580* and a back portion 582* of the baseball tote bag 574* make up an entire (full-portion) baseball or baseball-like representation. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574* is comprised of material similar to the material from which official Major League Baseball (MLB) baseballs are made, preferably leather, preferably rawhide leather. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official MLB baseballs (for example, white leather and red stitching). Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574* is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official MLB baseball. Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574* comprises stitches 586* and white leather 585* that appears similar to an official MLB baseball, as shown, preferably tightly stitched with red thread. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, baseball manufacturer's preference, etc., other baseball representations, such as softballs, plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the baseball tote bag 574*, such as oversized and scaled sizes to represent the baseball, for example ten-times normal baseball sized, twenty times normal baseball sized, normal sized, miniature sized, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 40 b is a front view of the baseball tote bag 574* of FIG. 40 a. Preferably, front portion 580* comprises indicia 581*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 581* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise baseball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-MLB indicia, consistent with other baseball and softball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), International Baseball Association (IBA), National Softball Association (NSA), Little League Baseball, New York Yankees, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 576* and tensioned closure 578* are located at the top 571* of the baseball tote bag 574*, as shown, such that items stored within the baseball tote bag 574* do not fall out when the closure 578* is opened. Preferably, the opening 576* and tensioned closure 578* are located between the front portion 580* and the back portion 582*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 576* and tensioned closure 578* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 556* and tensioned closure 558*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, baseball tote bag 574* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside baseball tote bag 574* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within baseball tote bag 574*.

Preferably, the baseball tote bag 574* is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual baseball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a baseball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 582*, as shown. Preferably, baseball tote bag 574* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other baseball tote bag 574* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 41 a is a perspective view of a volleyball tote bag, having permanently attached handles 414*, of the sports container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 41 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag 604* of FIG. 41 a. FIG. 41 c is a back view of the volleyball tote bag 604* of FIG. 41 a. FIG. 41 d is a top view of the volleyball tote bag 604* of FIG. 41 a. FIG. 41 e is a side view of the volleyball tote bag 604* of FIG. 41 a.

Preferably, the sports container system 400* comprises a volleyball tote bag 604*, as shown in embodiment 602*. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604* comprises a front portion 610* and a back portion 612*, as shown. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604* comprises an opening 606* for accessing the interior of the volleyball tote bag 604*, as shown.

Preferably, opening 606* comprises a tensioned closure 608*, preferably a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com, as shown in FIG. 42 b). Preferably, the closure 608* is attached to the volleyball tote bag 604* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag 604*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, tote-bag 604* has a permanently attached strap 414*, as shown, preferably long enough to facilitate carrying by a user. Preferably, strap 414* is permanently attached to the tote-bag 604*, preferably by stitching 442*.

Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, manufacturing, container attachability, etc., other permanent attachments, such as rivets, staples, chemical welds, heat welds, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing, container detachability, durability, etc., other permanent connectors, may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as weight distribution, user preferences, economic considerations, etc., more than one strap, such as two straps, four straps etc., may suffice.

Preferably, front portion 610* and a back portion 612* of the volleyball tote bag 604* make up an entire (full-portion) volleyball or volleyball-like representation. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604* is comprised of material similar to the material from which official Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) volleyballs are made, preferably leather, preferably white leather. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604* comprises a color scheme similar to the color scheme of official FIVB volleyballs (for example, white leather and black seams). Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604* is textured similarly to the smooth leather texture of an official FIVB volleyball. Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604* comprises black seams 616* and white leather 618* that appears similar to an official FIVB volleyball, as shown in FIG. 33 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, cost, volleyball manufacturer's preference, etc., other volleyball representations, such as plastic material, different color schemes, different textures, different sizes, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as use, economic consideration, advertising, etc., other sizes of the volleyball tote bag 604*, such as adult-sized, child sized, normal sized, miniature sized, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 41 b is a front view of the volleyball tote bag 604* of FIG. 41 a. Preferably, front portion 610* comprises indicia 611*. Preferably, strap 414* comprises strap indicia as shown in the above-described Figures (for example, indicia 110). Preferably, indicia 611* and/or strap indicia 110 comprise volleyball related indicia. Upon reading this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, considering issues such as marketing, advertising, cost, team and player popularity, business benefits, etc., other non-FIVB indicia, consistent with other volleyball associations, manufacturers, slogans, advertisers, players, and teams, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), USA Volleyball, Pro Beach Volleyball, Team USA, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, opening 606* and tensioned closure 608* are located at the top 617* of the volleyball tote bag 604*, as shown, such that items stored within the volleyball tote bag 604* do not fall out when the closure 608* is opened. Preferably, the opening 606* and tensioned closure 608* are located between the front portion 610* and the back portion 612*, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other opening 606* and tensioned closure 608* arrangements, such as snaps, buckles, tension brackets, Velcro™, and other locations for the opening 606* and tensioned closure 608*, multiple openings, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604* can be used to contain a variety of objects, such as wallets, money, credit cards, makeup, keys, papers, identification, consumables, and other personal, portable items, etc. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604* has pockets, dividers, or additional container devices, concealed inside volleyball tote bag 604* (not shown), to assist a user in organizing and arranging objects within volleyball tote bag 604*.

Preferably, the volleyball tote bag 604* is a 3-dimensional hollow representation of an actual volleyball. Preferably, only a full-portion-representation of a volleyball is used, so as to optimize potential personal item containment space and provide for a fully 3-dimensional back portion 612*, as shown. Preferably, volleyball tote bag 604* is arranged to so as to appear symmetric. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, manufacturing, materials, cost, etc., other volleyball tote bag 604* configurations, such as non-symmetric portions, non-symmetric arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 42 a is a perspective view illustrating the tote-bag closure assembly 411 of the sports container system 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 42 a is illustrative of closure assemblies 411, (representing, as described above closure 408, 458, 488, 508, 528, 558, 578 and 608). Preferably, the closure assembly 411 is a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure assembly 411 is attached to each respective tote bag 419 of the sports container system 400 using stitching 409, as shown in FIG. 42 a. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag system 400, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, each closure assembly 411 provides access and closure to an opening 413 to each respective tote-bag 419 of the sports container system 400 as previously described and shown. Preferably, each respective closure assembly 411 is tensioned such that pressing along an end 415 actuates the closure assembly to open and pressing along a side 417 actuates the closure assembly 411 to close. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure arrangement, operating preferences, dimensions, economics, user preferences, etc., other methods of opening and closing the closure assembly 411, such as spring-loaded buttons, button releases, locks, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 42 b is a perspective view illustrating the tote-bag closure assembly 411* of the sports container system 400* according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 42 a is illustrative of closure assemblies 411*, (representing, as described above closure 408*, 458*, 488*, 508*, 528*, 558*, 578* and 608*). Preferably, the closure assembly 411* is a purse closure such as a coin type purse closure (such as available from www.kingskountry.com). Preferably, the closure assembly 411* is attached to each respective tote bag 419* of the sports container system 400* using stitching 409*, as shown in FIG. 42 b. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure manufacturer, tote-bag material, economic considerations, durability etc., other methods of attaching the closure to the tote-bag system 400*, such as adhesive, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, each closure assembly 411* provides access and closure to an opening 413* to each respective tote-bag 419* of the sports container system 400* as previously described and shown. Preferably, each respective closure assembly 411* is tensioned such that pressing along an end 415* actuates the closure assembly to open and pressing along a side 417* actuates the closure assembly 411* to close. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as closure arrangement, operating preferences, dimensions, economics, user preferences, etc., other methods of opening and closing the closure assembly 411*, such as spring-loaded buttons, button releases, locks, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 43 is a diagrammatic view of a system and method for selling at least one container system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, businessperson 801 identifies manufacturers 803 (preferably international manufacturers) capable of both producing the container system, and printing out indicia onto container systems. According to an alternate preferred embodiment, businessperson 801 identifies international manufacturers 803 capable of producing the container system, and separate manufacturers capable of printing indicia on the container system. Preferably, indicia comprises sports-related indicia. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand etc., other indicia arrangements may suffice, such as, for example, any type of indicia from anywhere in the world. Preferably, indicia comprises indicia involving worldwide sport governing associations, and/or manufacturers, and/or slogans, and/or advertisers, and/or players, and/or participants, and/or teams, and/or racers, and/or crews. Indicia may include, for example, indicia 108, and/or indicia 208, and/or strap indicia 110, and/or strap indicia 210, and/or zipper tag indicia 952, as herein described.

Preferably, businessperson 801 selects indicia to be applied to sport container systems. Preferably, businessperson 801 contacts international indicia owners 805 (preferably international indicia owners related to at least one sport) and contracts for a licensing agreement 807 whereby indicia owner 805 agrees to allow businessperson 801 to provide end users 802 with sport container systems displaying the indicia of indicia owner 805 (embodying herein obtaining at least one license from at least one sports indicia owner in respect to at least one sports indicia related to such at least one chief item used in performing such at least one sport; and embodying herein wherein such sports indicia owner is an international governing organization for at least one sport). Preferably, businessperson 801 also contacts indicia owners 805 and contracts for a licensing agreement 807 whereby indicia owner 805 agrees to allow businessperson 801 to sell sport container systems, comprising indicia, to international advertisers 804, or directly to end users 802. Preferably, businessperson 801 makes royalty payments 816 to indicia owners 805, as shown, according to licensing agreement 807.

Preferably, businessperson 801 determines the preferred specifications 808 (embodying herein specifying at least one design for at least one container system) of each container system (preferably suited to the desires of advertisers 804), such as dimensions, color, materials, and location of indicia on the container system, etc. Preferably, container systems comprise fanny packs, and/or backpacks, and/or leg packs, and/or tote bags. Preferably, indicia is placed on the front of the container systems. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, advertiser request, etc., other indicia arrangements may suffice, such as, for example, placing indicia anywhere on any container, anywhere on any strap, anywhere on any accessory, and/or anywhere on any zipper tag, etc.

Preferably, businessperson 801 identifies and negotiates a contract 806 with at least one manufacturer 803 capable of producing container systems. Preferably businessperson 801 places orders 809 for container systems, provides the specifications and designs 808 (hereinafter referred to as “specifications 808”), and makes payments 810 for container systems which are manufactured and delivered by manufacturer 803 according to contract 806, as shown. According to an alternate preferred embodiment, businessperson 801 may manufacture the sport container systems.

Preferably, specifications 808 include indicia sizes, colors, and text. Preferably, at the conclusion of contract negotiations, businessperson 801 provides manufacturer 803 specifications 808 and estimated production quantities. Preferably, estimated delivery dates of the container systems are provided to advertiser 804 by business person 801 who receives such information from manufacturer 803. Preferably, businessperson 801 solicits orders from advertisers 804 for container systems. Preferably, businessperson 801 solicits advertisers 804 that are related to sports. Preferably, businessperson 801 solicits advertisers 804 in local regional markets (such as, for example, a city, state, etc.), preferably regional markets with a large market for the associated sport and/or team/sport indicia, etc. Preferably, businessperson 801 solicits radio stations. Businessperson 801 preferably receives purchase orders 820, followed by payments 822, from advertisers 804, specifying quantities of particular container systems and indicia, with desired delivery dates (embodying herein securing at least one order from the at least one advertiser, having at least one marketing indicia, for such at least one container system). Preferably, on receipt of purchase orders 820, and/or upon reaching a retail agreement 818 with advertiser 804, businessperson 801 preferably orders from manufacturer 803 specific production quantities of particular container systems, indicia, and desired delivery dates of finished product 824. Preferably, manufactured container systems are delivered to advertisers 804 (embodying herein providing for delivery of such at least one container system to at least one destination provided by such at least one advertiser). Preferably, following delivery, advertisers 804 supply container systems to end users 802, preferably for free as a promotion (embodying herein providing such at least one container system to at least one end user for free). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as market demand, advertising strategy, etc., other distribution arrangements may suffice, such as, for example, selling container systems etc.

Preferably, advertisers 804 preferably remit payment to businessperson 801 according to agreement 818 (embodying herein receiving from the at least one advertiser at least one payment for the at least one indicia displaying container system delivered to the at least one advertiser). Preferably, businessperson 801 preferably remit payments 810 to manufacturer 803 on confirmation of delivery to advertiser 804 (embodying herein paying the at least one manufacturer for the shipped at least one indicia displaying container system). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, credit, marketing, distance, etc., alternate ordering methods, payment methods, sequences of steps, etc., may suffice. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, persons of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, convenience, efficiency, etc., alternate preferred forms of marketing distribution including, but not limited to, e-commerce through the Internet, television-based home shopping, catalog orders, mail orders, etc., may suffice.

Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims. 

1) A container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: a) at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, adapted to containing the items; b) at least one access to provide access to said at least one interior portion of said at least one container; c) wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; d) wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion; and e) wherein said at least one back portion comprises elements structured and arranged to provide comfortable wearability along the form of the user. 2) The container system according to claim 1 further comprising at least one strap, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. 3) The container system according to claim 2 further comprising at least one attachment to attach said at least one strap to said at least one container. 4) The container system according to claim 2 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one adjuster adapted to adjust the length of said at least one strap. 5) The container system according to claim 2 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one connector structured and arranged to assist in securing said at least one strap to the user. 6) The container system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one three-dimensional representation consists essentially of about one-half of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 7) The container system according to claim 6 further comprising at least one strap, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. 8) The container system according to claim 7 further comprising at least one attachment to attach said at least one strap to said at least one container. 9) The container system according to claim 8 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one adjuster adapted to adjust the length of said at least one strap. 10) The container system according to claim 9 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one connector structured and arranged to assist in securing said at least one strap to the user. 11) The container system according to claim 10 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one racing wheel. 12) The container system according to claim 10 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one hockey puck. 13) The container system according to claim 10 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-half of at least one sports ball. 14) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one football. 15) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one basketball. 16) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one soccer ball. 17) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one tennis-ball. 18) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one baseball. 19) The container system according to claim 13 wherein said about one-half of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-half of at least one volleyball. 20) The container system according to claim 14 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 21) The container system according to claim 14 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 22) The container system according to claim 14 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 23) The container system according to claim 15 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 24) The container system according to claim 15 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 25) The container system according to claim 15 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 26) The container system according to claim 16 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 27) The container system according to claim 16 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 28) The container system according to claim 16 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 29) The container system according to claim 17 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 30) The container system according to claim 17 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 31) The container system according to claim 17 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 32) The container system according to claim 18 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 33) The container system according to claim 18 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 34) The container system according to claim 18 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 35) The container system according to claim 19 wherein said container system comprises at least one fanny-pack. 36) The container system according to claim 19 wherein said container system comprises at least one backpack. 37) The container system according to claim 19 wherein said container system comprises at least one leg-pack. 38) The container system according to claim 10 wherein said at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially at least one scaled-size of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 39) The container system according to claim 10 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one indicia adapted to assist user-recognizable sport representation. 40) The container system according to claim 10 wherein said at least one container comprises advertising indicia to assist advertising. 41) The container system according to claim 10 wherein said at least one indicia comprises association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. 42) The container system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one access comprises at least one closure adapted to provide closure of said at least one interior portion of said at least one container. 43) The container system according to claim 42 wherein said at least one closure comprises at least one zipper. 44) The container system according to claim 42 wherein said at least one closure comprises at least one tensioned closure structured and arranged to tensionably close said at least one interior portion. 45) The container system according to claim 38 wherein said at least one scaled-size is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a) at least one adult size; b) at least one child size; c) at least one miniature size. 46) The container system according to claim 6 wherein said at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially at least one scaled-size of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 47) The container system according to claim 46 wherein said at least one scaled-size is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a) at least one adult size; b) at least one child size; c) at least one miniature size. 48) The container system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one indicia to assist user-recognizable sport representation. 49) The container system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia to assist advertising. 50) The container system according to claim 48 wherein said at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. 51) The container system according to claim 5 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one indicia to assist user-recognizable sport representation. 52) The container system according to claim 5 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one advertising indicia to assist advertising. 53) The container system according to claim 51 wherein said at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. 54) The container system according to claim 43 wherein said at least one zipper comprises at least one zipper tag. 55) A container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: a) at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, adapted to containing the items; and b) at least one access opening to provide access to said at least one interior portion of said at least one container; c) wherein said at least one front portion and said at least one back portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; d) wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion; e) wherein said at least one access opening comprises at least one tensioned opener to provide opening of said at least one interior portion of said at least one container; and f) wherein said at least one tensioned opener comprises at least one tensioned closure structured and arranged to tensionably close said at least one access opening. 56) The container system according to claim 55 further comprising at least one strap, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support by the user. 57) The container system according to claim 56 further comprising at least one attachment to attach said at least one strap to said at least one container. 58) The container system according to claim 57 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one connection adapted to assist in securing said at least one strap to the user. 59) The container system according to claim 58 wherein said at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially about one-whole of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 60) The container system according to claim 59 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole racing wheel. 61) The container system according to claim 59 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole hockey puck. 62) The container system according to claim 59 wherein the at least one chief item consists essentially of about one-whole sports ball. 63) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole of at least one football. 64) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole basketball. 65) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole soccer ball. 66) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole tennis-ball. 67) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole baseball. 68) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said about one-whole of at least one sports ball consists essentially of about one-whole volleyball. 69) The container system according to claim 63 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 70) The container system according to claim 64 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 71) The container system according to claim 65 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 72) The container system according to claim 66 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 73) The container system according to claim 67 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 74) The container system according to claim 68 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one tote-bag. 75) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one indicia adapted to assist user-recognizable sport representation. 76) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia adapted to assist advertising. 77) The container system according to claim 62 wherein said at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. 78) The container system according to claim 77 wherein said at least one container comprises at least one advertising indicia adapted to assist advertising. 79) The container system according to claim 78 wherein said at least one indicia comprises at least one association indicia representing at least one sports governing association. 80) A container system, having at least one sport representation, for containing items of a user, comprising, in combination: a) container means, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; b) access means for providing access to said at least one interior portion of said container means; c) wherein said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; d) wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion; and e) wherein said at least one back portion comprises means for comfortable wearability along the human form of the user. 81) The container system according to claim 80 further comprising strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user. 82) The container system according to claim 81 further comprising attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means. 83) The container system according to claim 81 wherein said strap means comprises adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means. 84) The container system according to claim 81 wherein said strap means comprises connection means for assisting in securing said strap means to the user. 85) The container system according to claim 80 wherein said at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 86) The container system according to claim 85 further comprising strap means, attachable to said container means, for assisting wearable support by the user. 87) The container system according to claim 86 further comprising attachment means for attaching said strap means to said container means. 88) The container system according to claim 87 wherein said strap means comprises adjuster means for adjusting the length of said strap means. 89) The container system according to claim 88 wherein said strap means comprises connection means for assisting in securing said strap means to the user. 90) A method of marketing a plurality of container systems for containing items of a user, each such container system comprising at least one container comprising at least one front portion and at least one back portion, access means for providing access to such at least one interior portion of such container means, wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport, wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion, and wherein such at least one back portion comprises means for assisting wearability adjacent the user's body, and strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user, comprising, in combination, the steps of: a) specifying at least one design for at least one container system; b) securing at least one order from at least one advertiser, having at least one marketing indicia, for such at least one container system; c) specifying at least one location, on such at least one container system, for placement of such at least one marketing indicia; d) providing for delivery of such at least one container system to at least one destination provided by such at least one advertiser; and e) receiving from the at least one advertiser at least one payment for the at least one indicia-displaying container system delivered to the at least one advertiser; and f) paying the at least one manufacturer for the shipped at least one indicia-displaying container system. 91) The method according to claim 90 further comprising the steps of: a) obtaining at least one license from at least one sports indicia owner in respect to at least one sports indicia related to such at least one chief item used in performing such at least one sport; and b) placing such at least one sports indicia on such at least one container system. 92) The method according to claim 91 wherein such at least one sports indicia owner comprises at least one of the group consisting essentially of: a) sport governing associations; b) advertisers; c) manufacturers; d) teams; e) players; f) racers; g) sport participants; and h) crews. 93) The method according to claim 91 wherein such placing step comprises the steps of: a) placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of i) fanny packs ii) backpacks iii) leg packs iv) tote bags. 94) The method according to claim 91 wherein such placing step comprises the steps of: a) placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of i) containers ii) straps iii) zipper tags. 95) The method according to claim 94 wherein such placing step further comprises the steps of: a) placing such at least one sports indicia on at least one of the group consisting essentially of i) fanny packs ii) backpacks iii) leg packs iv) tote bags. 96) A method of marketing a plurality of container systems for containing items of a user, each such container system comprising at least one container comprising at least one front portion and at least one back portion, access means for providing access to such at least one interior portion of such container means, wherein such at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport, wherein such at least one back portion encloses such at least one front portion, and wherein such at least one back portion comprises means for assisting wearability adjacent the user's body, and strap means, attachable to such container means, for assisting wearable support by the user, comprising, in combination, the steps of: a) obtaining at least one license from at least one sports indicia owner in respect to at least one sports indicia related to such at least one chief item used in performing such at least one sport; b) placing such at least one sports indicia on such at least one container system; and c) placing at least one marketing indicia of at least one advertiser on such at least one container system. 97) The method according to claim 96 further comprising the steps of: a) selling such at least one container system to such advertiser. 98) The method according to claim 96 further comprising the steps of: a) providing such at least one container system to at least one end user for free. 99) The method according to claim 96 wherein such sports indicia owner is an international governing organization for at least one sport. 100) The method according to claim 99 wherein: a) such at least one advertiser has a substantially local regional market. 101) The method according to claim 100 wherein a) such substantially local regional market is primarily within one state. 102) The method according to claim 96 wherein at least one such advertiser comprises a radio station. 103) A container system, for containing items of a user adjacent a leg of the user, comprising, in combination: a) at least one container, comprising at least one front portion, at least one back portion, at least one interior portion, and at least one exterior portion, for containing the items; b) at least one access to provide access to said at least one interior portion of said at least one container; c) at least one leg support, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support adjacent the leg; d) at least one first attachment to attach said at least one leg support to said at least one container; e) wherein said at least one leg support comprises at least one first connector structured and arranged to assisting in securing said at least one leg support to the user; f) wherein said at least one back portion encloses said at least one front portion; g) wherein said at least one back portion comprises at least one wearability element to assist wearability along the human form of the user. 104) The container system according to claim 103 comprising: a) at least one waist support, attachable to said at least one container, structured and arranged to assist wearable support adjacent the leg; and b) at least one second attachment to attach said at least one waist support to said at least one container; c) wherein said at least one waist support comprises at least one second connector adapted to assist in securing said at least one waist support to the user's waist. 105) The container system according to claim 104 wherein said at least one waist support comprises at least one length adjuster to adjust length of support between said at least one waist support and said at least one container. 106) The container system according to claim 103 wherein said at least one leg support comprises at least one strap adapted to strap said at least one container to the leg. 107) The container system according to claim 106 wherein said at least one strap comprises at least one strap adjuster adapted to adjust the length of said at least one strap. 108) The container system according to claim 107 wherein said at least one strap comprises said at least one first connector. 109) The container system according to claim 103 wherein a) said at least one front portion consists essentially of at least one three-dimensional representation of at least one portion of at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport; and b) said at least one three-dimensional representation comprises essentially one-half of the at least one chief item used in performing at least one sport. 110) The container system according to claim 103 wherein said at least one access comprises a zipper. 111) The container system according to claim 105 wherein: a) said at least one adjuster comprises at least one tensioner; and b) said at least one tensioner comprises at least one retractable cord structured and arranged to maintain tension between said at least one waist support and said at least one container. 